Regine Wiedemann is Head of Distribution DACH at Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management. We talk with her about what Edmond de Rothschild AM does to retain employees and the importance of diversity within the company.

Ms. Wiedemann, how did you get to Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management, und and how long have you been working there now?
I have been with the company for almost three years; previously, I was with Goldman Sachs Asset Management, and before that, I was self-employed as Managing Director at Vicenda Service GmbH. Essentially, I followed my boss, who joined Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management in 2020.

In preparation for our interview, you mentioned that gender equality is truly practiced at Edmond de Rothschild AM. What makes you say that?
We are part of a group led by women. Baroness Ariane de Rothschild leads the Edmond de Rothschild Group along with her four daughters. This group includes not only asset management but also a private bank, wineries, cheese dairies, hotels, and not least a foundation and the Gitana racing yacht. Approximately 38 percent of the workforce at the company are female.

And what is the situation at senior management level at Edmond de Rothschild AM?
It's even more there, about 50 percent women. Marie Jacot is the Global Head of Sales at Edmond de Rothschild AM and also CEO of Edmond de Rothschild AM France. She is also a member of the Global Asset Management Executive Committee.

Are there strict targets for the proportion of women in management at the company?
No, we don't have strict targets, but gender equality is one of the main focus areas of our owner. At the portfolio management level, our lead teams usually consist of at least one woman and one man. The Emerging Market Climate Bond Fund is managed by two women. A good balance is important to the company, not just between men and women, but also between young and old, and so on. The younger generation challenges the older with new, creative ideas. Mixed teams are expected to bring a healthy balance and ultimately better, more stable results. Moreover, a balanced team is motivating. Anyone who wants responsibility gets it and receives recognition. And lastly, our customers are diverse and see themselves better reflected in our teams.

Staff shortage is a critical issue today. How does Edmond de Rothschild AM retain good female employees? Flexibility seems to be a particularly important concern for women.
Yes, flexibility is truly practiced here, such as the option to work from home. Again, we don't have strict guidelines; everyone gets the greatest possible freedom that is feasible for their position. This is not only very effective but also motivating. In Geneva and Paris, Edmond de Rothschild AM offers daycare places that employees can use for their children. This makes it much easier for parents to focus on their work.

How does Edmond de Rothschild AM search for new employees?
We look everywhere. Among other things, we go to university events to search there – both for women and men. Many women also proactively apply to us. I think anyone who cannot find competent women in the financial industry is not looking properly. Perhaps women need to be approached differently than men; they also need different support within the company. For example, I like to take young talents with me to my client meetings, and I have always felt well-supported here.

How are you further motivated as an employee?
Of course, much is done via video conferences, but occasionally we are also invited to Geneva in person, so not everything is discussed via video. This greatly contributes to a positive working atmosphere. During these personal meetings, we are always asked, "What should we change in the company to get even better? What is good and should be strengthened?" This stimulates thinking and lets you take on the entrepreneur's perspective.

Can you tell us a bit more about the management style, which apparently appeals to women a lot?
What I personally notice is a soft aspect of daily support, which particularly benefits reserved individuals. Of course, there are also reserved men, but women as well. Additionally, it is noticeable that diversity is always a topic in every management address. Other aspects of corporate culture are also repeatedly addressed, with everything focused on balance.

Thank you very much for the interesting insights you have given us!

Profilbild von Anke Dembowski

Anke Dembowski

Anke Dembowski is a financial journalist and author of various investment fund-related and other financial books. She is also a co-founder of the "Fondsfrauen" network.

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