We came away with lots to think about, and the overlying theme of the two days was to remain active and optimistic in these uncertain times.

One of the key takeaways was the range of business opportunities offered by sustainable investment and new technologies for a better world, a theme which continues to build steam across all sectors and markets. Clairfield has a special interest in working with businesses that promote sustainable and ethical investment opportunities.
 

Kathy Bowman-Williams and Jane Haxby spoke on a subject that Clairfield feels very strongly about - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our workplace. Clairfield is eager to not only recruit, but also mentor and support women in the tough but rewarding environment of M&A.

Thank you Kathy and Jane for your advice and we congratulate their law firm, Squire Patton Boggs, for achieving and exceeding diversity objectives under Kathy’s guidance!

The Clairfield Academy is run in parallel to Clairfield’s partner events, the sessions are part of Clairfield’s commitment to educating and mentoring young talent and creating bonds among our junior staff worldwide where our young people gain insight into sectors, hear expert speakers, hone technical skills, and create bonds with our junior staff worldwide.

The London Academy program included talks on technical matters including public company takeovers, interest rates, and debt, as well as building and valuing a sustainable business. We were thrilled to be able to offer this in the very fitting setting of The Library at The Caledonian Club in the heart of London. 

The highlight of this quarter’s Academy meet-up was undoubtedly the presentation and workshop on persuasion and presentation skills by Jane Cool. Feedback from our Academy colleagues has been extremely positive; this workshop “gave us useful insights into the corporate communication styles while simultaneously pushing us to practice these skills. Jane engaged everyone in the room from the outset with a high level of energy and direct communication style,” and “we learnt useful tips to help us when communicating with clients.” Through such workshops, our analysts learn more skills to practise in a real-world setting and gain a competitive edge.
 

The second day of the Academy saw talks from Andrea Jagodic, Francesco Podesta, Sandor de Jasay and Mike Barnes. Clairfield regards career development as a priority, so the academy program is designed and constantly evolves to train, educate, and inspire our latest recruits for future success.

We finished the day with a fantastic reception at the Cavalry & Guards Club where it was wonderful to connect with friends and colleagues, both old and new!

We’re looking forward to seeing our international colleagues again at the next Clairfield Partners’ meeting early next year!