Martin Gilbert, Chairman AssetCo, shares his thoughts on women in investment, in this latest article from City Hive’s Fearless Woman campaign.

DiversityQ and ESG Clarity are delighted to support the campaign celebrating 50 years of women investing in the UK. 

What or who inspired you to work in investing?

I was fortunate to meet and work with Ronnie Scott-Brown and George Robb in the investment department of a local law firm. We went on to co-found Aberdeen Asset Management – I was the junior partner.

My career as a fund manager was short-lived. I soon realised I was more suited to managing the business rather than running portfolios.

What do you think the future looks like for women in investing? What would you like to see?

I’m optimistic. The industry has come a long way, although there is more to do. Glass ceilings have been cracked but unfortunately not entirely smashed. It is now much easier for young women to get into asset management and progress their careers, but unconscious biases remain. Hopefully, the success stories throughout the industry will help rid the sector of these biases. 

What is your attitude to investment risk?

I’m certainly not risk-averse. What is crucial is to do your homework and think long-term. 

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Some degree of indestructibility. It would have meant me not having to use crutches for the past few weeks after a skiing accident.

Tell us your motto, or if you don’t live by one, why not?

It’s better to try and fail than not to try at all.