We would like to tell you about our Women's Network - a great programme that supports women in their professional development.
What is the Women’s Network?
The Women’s Network is a networking and development programme designed to support career progression for women at Berenberg. Launched in 2019, the programme aims to equip participants with essential skills and tools, fostering a network within the Bank to share experiences, build relationships, and offer mutual support. All female employees at Berenberg with at least one year of tenure are welcome to join. To date, we have conducted sessions for over 200 employees.
A Collaborative Sense of Community for Berenberg’s Female Employees
Our recent event for the 10th cohort of the Women’s Network took place in London, featuring around 25 participants. This session provided female employees from across our European offices with the chance to connect, share experiences, and discuss common challenges. It also served as a platform to reflect on career development and goals. Participants enjoyed an inspiring talk from Audrey Wiggin and engaged in group activities aimed at sharing experiences, developing relationships, and professional self-reflection.
One participant shared, “Joining the Women’s Network has been an enriching experience to me. I felt supported, empowered, and inspired by all the women attending.” This feedback reflects the strong sense of community fostered by the network, where members find support and motivation from their peers. Beyond the networking sessions, the Women’s Network provides a space for Berenberg’s female employees to stay connected.
Career Reflections
During the session, participants introspectively examined how their values aligned with their career paths. They discussed challenges faced and how these have either supported or contradicted their values. Participants also outlined their career goals and set intentions for achieving them, including writing letters to themselves about their ambitions for the next five years.
One attendee noted, “Everybody has a super strength. Find out and use it.” This quote emphasizes the focus on personal strengths and their impact on career progression. Audrey’s background in neuroscience provided a fascinating basis for these exercises. Her approach was highly appreciated, with feedback such as, “Audrey has a special talent for storytelling and asking the right questions, while backing her statements with (neuro)scientific evidence.” This illustrates how her expertise enhances the value of the sessions.
Until Next Time
We received excellent feedback from the event. One participant shared, “I am looking forward to honing my strengths and unlocking potential in the company of inspiring women!” We wholeheartedly agree and look forward to the next Women’s Network event, which will be hosted in Frankfurt.