The Fund Finance Association Next Generation (“NextGen”) initiative, established in 2018, brings together young professionals from funds, banks and law firms from within the fund finance market. The NextGen network was founded by Billal Malik (Citi), and previous events have included educational seminars, a speed networking event and industry panels.

Citi hosted the fourth European NextGen event, a problem-solving activity aimed at providing a local charity with workable solutions to a problem it is facing. The charity, Career Ready, connects employers with schools to open up the world of work to disadvantaged young people. The organization's CEO, Anne Spackman, presented the current challenge and requested that NextGen participants provide solutions.

Attendees from across the fund finance industry were split into teams and discussed solutions that were then presented to a judging panel, including Jane Sedgwick (EMEA Head of Investment Finance, Citi Private Bank); Anne Spackman (Career Ready CEO); Kamran Anwar (Head of Private Equity, SS&C); and Anthony Cockett (EMEA Head of Private Equity clients, Citi Private Bank). The panel provided feedback on the group’s ideas and presentations. A number of great ideas were presented, leaving Career Ready with many takeaways. Participants enjoyed attending such an interactive event and having the opportunity to work with industry partners in a different way whilst giving back to the community.