The Black Futures Programme - April

Due to high volume of applications, this event has now closed for submissions. Keep an eye out for future similar events from the FCA.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) exclusively invites Bright Network members, currently in their first year of study, who identify as female and are from a black heritage background, to join their three day virtual experience – The Black Futures Programme. As a firm committed to increasing diversity in Financial Services, the FCA offers you this unique chance to explore the industry whilst developing the skills needed to get ahead. Plus, you’ll also have the opportunity to be part of a real assessment centre and potentially secure a place on the FCA’s 2022 Summer Internship Programme.

Who is the FCA?

At the FCA, we aim to make markets work well – for individuals, for business, large and small, and for the economy as a whole. We regulate nearly 60,000 financial services firms and financial markets in the UK, and we’re the prudential supervisor for 49,000 firms. Whatever financial services product you have, whether it be a bank account, a loan, car insurance or an investment, it’s likely to be regulated by us.

Is the FCA for me?

At the FCA, we believe that we can only achieve our best when we have a diverse group of individuals working together, challenging one another and considering a breadth of different perspectives. This is why we’re so passionate about diversity – it’s critical to our ability to protect consumers.

While we’re proud to have ranked 59th in Stonewall's Workplace Equality Index this year, recognising our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace, we know that there is still a long way to go. This is where our Black Futures Programme comes in. Aimed at levelling the playing field for black heritage students, we run the programme for black men in February and for black women in Spring. It’s an opportunity to connect with other passionate women interested in a career in Financial Services. Our roles range in Supervision, Technology, Law, Project Management and much more, and they are perfect for those ready to learn and make an impact.

What to expect on the programme

The Black Futures Programme will share insight into the work we do and the type of career you can expect with us. Critically, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a real assessment centre; developing essential case study and interview experience. You’ll receive detailed feedback following the programme to help you, evaluate your performance and prepare for future assessments.

Students that reach our selection benchmark, will be considered for our 2022 Summer Internship; a 10-week, fully paid internship programme. To be eligible, you must attend all three days of this programme.

During this insight programme, you’ll hear from a range of inspirational FCA employees, have the chance to ask questions, gain valuable assessment centre experience and take part in personal development and employability sessions.

Programme Overview

• Day 1 – 26th April – Introduction to the FCA and Financial Services
• Day 2 – 27th April – Assessment Centre
• Day 3 – 28th April - Personal Development and Reflection

Full details will be provided to successful applicants nearer the time.

How to apply?

To secure your spot at the event, click the ‘Apply Now’ button, complete the short application form and someone from the Bright Network team will be in touch. Spaces are limited, so we recommend you apply as early as possible.