Raymond James Kicks Off 25th Annual Women's Event

A crowd of about 420 female advisors and 300 other guests met Renée Baker, Raymond James’ new leader of diversity and inclusion, at the 25th annual Women’s Symposium in Orlando.

Baker, who is in charge of the firm’s Network for Women Advisors, Advisor Pride Network and Black Financial Advisors Network, started in the role on Sept. 1.

“I am a staunch supporter of diversity and inclusion and will work tirelessly as your champion,” she said at the event’s opening session. 

Baker joined Raymond James two years ago. Earlier, she worked for Aberdeen Standard Investments, JPMorgan, Bank of New York and OppenheimerFunds (now Invesco). 

“Through our stories, we really connect with one another,” she said, before describing her career dream as a young child to become an astronaut and later a doctor. 

“I was told I was too attached to people,” Baker explained, “and I was pushed into finance. People are at the heart of what we all do. I’m so glad to be here.”

She reminded the crowd that stereotypes are changing.

A 1946 poll, for instance, found that just 35% of those surveyed believed men and women to be of equal intelligence, according to the American Psychological Association.

But last year, a survey revealed that this figure had hit 86%, Baker said. In fact, the poll also found 9% of those surveyed believe women are more intelligent and only 5% think men are more intelligent.

“This network is your village, and it will take all of us to move the needle in diversity and inclusion in our industry,” the executive said. “It feels like a daunting task. But we’ve got to first start the conversation. Let’s empower each other.”

Firm’s Progress

Michelle Lynch, the outgoing head of Raymond James’ Network for Women Advisors, says membership in this group now tops 1,100. “You have been growing your business and doing it all while encouraging others,” she explained to the audience. 

“It is about progress, which is not going to happen overnight,” Lynch added.