The finance industry has a ExCo pipeline problem. Ethnically diverse talent stalls below executive level, not through lack of capability, but through lack of access, advocacy, and the unwritten knowledge that accelerates progression. Homogeneous succession planning is a talent retention risk and a missed opportunity.
Elevate: Emerging Executives is a 10-month leadership programme we have designed in partnership with Roots Inspire to pave the way for ethnically diverse professionals to reach ExCo roles.
The finance industry has a ExCo pipeline problem. Ethnically diverse talent stalls below executive level, not through lack of capability, but through lack of access, advocacy, and the unwritten knowledge that accelerates progression. Homogeneous succession planning is a talent retention risk and a missed opportunity.
Elevate: Emerging Executives is a 10-month leadership programme we have designed in partnership with Roots Inspire to pave the way for ethnically diverse professionals to reach ExCo roles.
About The Programme
For Candidates
For Member Firms
Application Information
Programme at a Glance
Elevate: Emerging Executives is a 10-month programme, running from June 2026 until April 2027.
Elevate: Emerging Executives is a 10-month programme, running from June 2026 until April 2027.
This programme is delivered in partnership with Roots Inspire, and offers 15 places on the 2026 inaugural programme. Participation is fully funded for member firms in this first year.
The programme consists of a carefully designed set of elements, including workshops and unfiltered conversations, in-person sessions, career mentoring, sponsorship, and executive coaching.
Group Intervention
Participate in tailored workshops and unfiltered convos with leadership mentors and peers, uncovering strategies to overcome barriers and gain new perspectives for career advancement.
1:1 Career Mentoring
Receive personal guidance from Ethnic Senior Leaders that have been in your shoes and bring a wealth of experience on navigating challenges and seizing career-defining opportunities.
In-Person Events
Build meaningful connections with fellow participants as well as senior leaders through curated touchpoints throughout the year: the Kick-off, Collaboratory sessions, a Dinner, and a Closing Event.
Sponsorship Track
Secure visible advocacy within your organisation through quarterly meetings with your internal C-suite sponsor. These strategic touchpoints ensure you gain access to high-impact opportunities, receive championing for your advancement, and build the internal relationships critical for breaking through to executive leadership.
Executive Coaching
Access 1:1 sessions with an executive coach following your career mentoring phase. These targeted sessions provide a holistic approach to your C-suite readiness.
Who It’s For
For Candidates
Senior ethnically diverse professionals ready to transition to ExCo roles. You will gain active sponsorship from an ExCo member within your firm, career mentoring from ethnic senior leaders, peer learning, and executive coaching.
For Member Firms
Member Firms committed to retaining and advancing high-potential diverse talent. You will nominate a candidate and provide a ExCo sponsor who actively champions their progression.
Key Dates
Now: Member firms run internal selection processes
17 March 2026: Information Session for Firms | Information Session for Candidates
17 April 2026: Nomination deadline
4 May 2026: Final programme places confirmed
June 2026: Programme kick-off