Diversity, Equity
& Inclusion
The real estate sector, a cornerstone of the UK economy contributing over £94 billion annually, faces significant challenges when it comes to workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). While strides have been made, the industry still has a long way to go to ensure that it represents the diverse population it serves. At Cambridge Finance, we are deeply committed to addressing these issues and fostering a more inclusive and equitable industry.
Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords they are fundamental to effective talent acquisition, management, and retention. Companies that embrace diverse perspectives tend to outperform their competitors, attract top talent, and create innovative solutions. However, real estate, as a traditionally male-dominated sector, continues to struggle with gender representation, particularly in leadership roles. A 2020 survey revealed that while women constituted 40% of the workforce in entry-level positions, this figure dropped dramatically at senior levels, highlighting the persistent barriers to career progression for women in the industry.
Recognising this challenge early, our CEO, Maria Wiedner, took proactive steps to drive change. In 2012, she founded Real Estate Women (REW), a professional network aimed at giving visibility to women across the real estate sector. RE:W provides a platform for dialogue, mentorship, and advocacy, helping to break down barriers and support women in advancing their careers. Through events, thought leadership, and community-building, RE:W has become a vital resource for promoting gender equity and encouraging organisations to prioritise inclusivity in their leadership pipelines.
Yet gender is just one facet of the broader diversity challenge. The real estate sector also struggles with a lack of representation from individuals of lower socio-economic backgrounds. This underrepresentation means the industry misses out on a wealth of untapped talent and perspectives, which could drive greater innovation and understanding of diverse market needs. Cambridge Finance recognises the importance of creating pathways for these individuals to access opportunities and thrive in real estate careers.
In 2021, we established a scholarship fund to tackle these socio-economic disparities directly. The scholarship enables individuals from minority and less-privileged backgrounds to access our real estate financial modelling training programmes. These training opportunities are crucial for professional development, equipping participants with the skills needed to advance their careers and contribute meaningfully to the industry. By removing financial barriers, the scholarship programme empowers aspiring professionals to achieve their full potential, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the sector.
While initiatives like REW and our scholarship fund are making a difference, we recognise that there is still much work to be done. Diversity and inclusion gaps persist, and addressing them requires a concerted, industry-wide effort. At Cambridge Finance, we actively engage with our training delegates and client companies to better understand the underlying reasons behind these gaps. Through open dialogue and collaboration, we aim to uncover the systemic challenges that hinder progress and work with organisations to implement meaningful solutions.
One way we contribute to this effort is by incorporating DEI discussions into our real estate financial modelling training courses. These sessions provide a platform for participants to share their experiences, insights, and ideas for fostering greater inclusivity in their workplaces. By raising awareness and encouraging proactive measures, we help companies build more diverse teams and inclusive cultures.
A diverse and inclusive real estate sector is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. It ensures that the industry can attract and retain top talent, foster innovation, and better serve the needs of a diverse population. At Cambridge Finance, we are proud to play a role in driving this transformation. Through our initiatives, training programmes, and ongoing commitment to DEI, we are helping to build a future where the real estate workforce truly reflects the richness and diversity of society.