NOW IS AN EXCELLENT TIME TO CONSIDER BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR PEERS… THE ITFA MARTIN ASHURST MENTORING SCHEME 2022, Feb 2022

Contributed by ITFA’s Emerging Leaders Committee

More than ever, there is an opportunity for individuals in the trade finance industry to align their interests and have a positive impact to the real economy and trade finance. Whether it is the pandemic or the Ever Given saga, we are constantly reminded of how close our daily responsibilities are to the real economy. At the same time, a tidal wave of innovative solutions to help navigate the complex challenges within the industry have illustrated the exciting opportunities for transformation in the sector. In parallel, market leaders have signalled a call to action to integrate ESG initiatives into trade finance. As a result, there are myriad pathways one can choose to contribute to the market and wider society.

This diversification is important for three reasons. Firstly, greater diversification of roles creates opportunities to collaborate and share knowledge, increasing the overall standards of the whole market. Secondly, it fosters innovation, increasing the likelihood of advancements in digitalisation as well as enhancing environmental and governance market perspectives. Thirdly, as a sector it attracts and retains leading talent who identify with the industry, where they feel they have a clear purpose.

The Martin Ashurst Mentorship Scheme continues to be an excellent framework for individuals to meet each other and share their views and experiences. By the nature of our business, we understand the value of building relationships with peers to inform our perspectives and improve our understanding. Last year was an overwhelming success, bringing together over fifty mentors and mentees from diverse backgrounds including banking, fintech, insurance, research and asset management. We are very grateful to those who have already signalled their interest for the 2022 scheme and encourage others to apply in what will be a very exciting year for the trade finance community.

*Applications for mentors and mentees to the Martin Ashurst Mentoring Scheme are now open. To read more and apply click here.