Empowering Early Careers - NxtGen Insights into the UK IAM Conference 2024

The IAM NxtGen committee allows early career asset management professionals to come together share insights and build connections. Each year the NxtGen committee facilitates a panel at the IAM Conference in which early careers can demonstrate the impacts they have made to the sector. This article delves into their feedback, showcasing how the conference can inspire and elevate your career in asset management through networking, learning, presenting, and gaining industry awareness.

Learning and Development

The IAM conference provides an environment where learning and professional growth can flourish. Attendees can gain significant insights from those paving the way in innovation across the sector. All the presenters highlighted the opportunity for learning development throughout the day with Ed Williams expressing that the level of, “knowledge and expertise across the conference, was fascinating”. What’s great about this conference is that some of these examples of best practise can be embedded into day-to-day work to help us meet our goals quicker and provide value to our clients and customers. 

Public Speaking

Many of the presenters shared how the conference helped them enhance their public speaking skills, boosting their confidence and ability to engage with an audience. David Gent remarked, “Stepping out of my comfort zone and presenting to an engaged audience made me nervous at first, but it was incredibly rewarding once I had finished.” This experience highlights how participating in the conference not only improves communication skills but also fosters personal and professional growth. The IAM conference, therefore, provides a valuable opportunity for participants to overcome their fear of public speaking, refine their presentation techniques, and build their confidence in addressing diverse audiences. By actively participating, attendees can develop a crucial skill set that will benefit them in various aspects of their careers and personal lives. 

Community & Networking

The conference served as a valuable platform for attendees to expand their professional network within the asset management industry. It provided a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. Oscar Heckstall-Smith remarked, “Networking with asset management professionals across various career stages and sectors offered valuable insights into the industry and its many dimensions that I hadn’t fully appreciated before.” This highlights the importance of community-building and the benefits of engaging with industry peers. For newcomers to the asset management industry, the conference is an excellent opportunity to meet experienced professionals, gain mentorship, and establish connections that can support their career growth. 

Industry Awareness & Innovation

The IAM conference plays a crucial role in enhancing industry awareness, especially among early careers. Marlenna Boakes shared that she gained a, “deeper understanding of the specialisms within core organisations and their perspectives on innovation and sustainability across infrastructure.” Which is undoubtedly essential for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving asset management industry.  

Similarly, Abigail Wheel was pleased with the value the event provided especially through “thought-provoking sessions” and the volume of “discussions that inspired growth and innovation in asset management.” Hopefully, some of these discussions come to life and create meaningful change across the industry and in our work! 

Conclusion

Attending the IAM conference is a must for early-career asset management professionals. From building a supportive network and gaining industry insights to enhancing presentation skills and fueling innovation, the conference offers a wealth of opportunities. The experiences shared by the NxtGen presenters highlight the transformative impact of this event. If you're looking to grow, connect, and be inspired, the IAM conference is the place to be. Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your career and contribute to the future of asset management – by joining us this year!