The Investment Association, which represents the UK’s £6.9trn (€7.8trn) asset management industry, has launched a video designed to counter young people’s often-negative stereotypes of the sector.

The film, which features a selection of younger investment industry workers, pits students’ attitudes and views of the sector against the reality of what the IA has termed the “more diverse pool of talent”.

“We know that firms with diverse teams and pipelines make better decisions and we are working hard to make our industry more attractive to those from different backgrounds,” said Chris Cummings, CEO of the IA.

The video includes comments from students who expect those working in the investment management industry to be “stereotypically male… middle-aged white guys… privately educated”.

At the conclusion of the film, which reveals a cross-section of workers in the sector, one participant said: “The investment industry is so varied… I did not expect that.”

The IA recently merged with Investment 20/20, which was established five years ago to promote entry-level talent, diversity and inclusion within the investment industry. The film represents part of the trade body’s push to promote its “Supporting the Next Generation” programme.

Since 2013, Investment 20/20 has recruited and mentored more than 1,300 trainees and apprentices for almost 40 firms across the investment and wealth management industry.