Black Employees in Asset Management (BEAM) Employee Resource Group
Challenge
One of our goals outlined in our DEI Strategic Plan is to foster a culture where employees feel genuinely included and valued as members of our community. Conning recognized that employees in the African diaspora community lacked feelings of inclusivity and belonging at work and faced perceived barriers to professional development and advancement.
Actions
In December 2023, Conning formed the employee resource group Black Employees in Asset Management (BEAM), to positively influence our work culture, ensure professional development for all members of the African diaspora community, support the firm in achieving its diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, and engage with the community where we work and live.
Outcomes
Implementing BEAM has helped build an internal support system for members of the African diaspora community within the organization.
Quote
We believe our diverse perspectives and experiences enable us to enhance our ability to serve our clients. We strive to fulfill our mission by creating a work environment that allows all employees to attain their full potential personally and professionally. We expect this to be more than a ‘check the box’ exercise for compliance purposes. As we continue to foster a culture of inclusion and belonging, we should build momentum while each of us integrates new approaches into our daily work.