Openwork has opened its doors this week to its first intake of 19 graduates in its newly launched Graduate Wealth Pathway Scheme.

Last year more than 100 advisers joined the network, another 80 colleagues joined support functions, and its Academy saw expansion despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

These new graduates will learn about the Openwork business in general and specifically the new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, ConcertHub, which is being rolled out to adviser firms across the network. They will then support adviser firms with getting the most from this new technology. Once this work is completed, Openwork is committed to helping them move on to fulfilling roles within the business and potentially broader careers within the financial advice industry.

Carrie Morris, chief people officer of Openwork, said: “The graduate scheme has helped to give young people a career pathway in our industry at a time when employment prospects are tough. But of course, it’s a two-way street because with their diverse backgrounds and experiences, we know they will bring some fresh perspectives with them.

“Here at Openwork, we understand it’s important that our organisation reflects the clients and communities we serve because this not only fits with our values but also makes sound business sense from a succession planning perspective.

“We want to encourage people from all backgrounds to explore their skills and bring them to our organisation and we look forward to building on that throughout 2021.”