A new diversity and inclusion strategy focused on finance professionals in the public sector was announced today by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) at its annual conference, Public Finance Live 2019.
Opening the conference in Birmingham, CIPFA President Carolyn Williamson said the new strategy, which will be launched in autumn 2019, will aim to tackle the lack of diversity in the public finance profession.
CIPFA President Carolyn Williamson said:
“The gender pay gap and the under representation of BAME groups in our profession is very real, and the first step to reaching a solution is recognising the problem. Only by reflecting the communities we represent, can we make the most informed financial decisions.
I want to see all kinds of people from all kinds of backgrounds being encouraged into the top finance jobs across the public sector, and our new diversity and inclusion strategy will be a big step forward in achieving this goal.”
Developed in partnership with the Bridge Group, the strategy will be informed by a recent survey undertaken to better understand the demographic make-up of CIPFA staff and members, considering the protected characteristics in the Equality Act as well as socioeconomic indicators.
Nik Miller, Chief Executive of the Bridge Group said:
“We are delighted to support CIPFA in its ambitions to advance diversity and inclusion - to promote an even more representative profession and, in time, to play an important leadership role by modelling effective practice.”
The findings of the survey will be available shortly.
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For further information please contact the CIPFA press office on T: 020 7543 5737 or E: Ashleigh.moore@cipfa.org
About CIPFA
CIPFA, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, is the professional body for people in public finance. CIPFA shows the way in public finance globally, standing up for sound public financial management and good governance around the world as the leading commentator on managing and accounting for public money.
About the Bridge Group
The Bridge Group is a non-profit consultancy that uses research and action to promote diversity and inclusion in higher education and the workplace. Based at King’s College London, the Charity does this by supporting organisations of all kinds with independent expertise, research and practical know-how to enable them to make real and lasting impact.