Diversity: Not of gender, but personality

Not just a gender question

As a female portfolio manager in the financial industry, I am frequently questioned how I survive as a woman in a typically male-dominated industry and if I feel disadvantaged.

It is a valid question. Gender is obviously a distinguishing factor between people and there are far fewer female portfolio managers than there are males. If I join an investors' conference, I am often the reason the speaker needs to address us with "dear lady and gentlemen", which is likely followed by a comment about the only woman sitting in the audience - me. Parker Review sets ethnic diversity targets for FTSE 350 boards However, in my opinion, this is an opportunity to stand out. It is then up to me how to use this attention and make sure I am remembered for the right reasons...