The programme is designed for financial services professionals who are demonstrating outstanding commitment and want to expand their experience, knowledge and networks.

Emerging Leaders will launch at the FSC’s Towards Wellbeing Conference on September 11, with a one-day programme for participants designed to debate sector issues as well as to learn how to better balance their own, their team and their customers' wellbeing.

Richard Klipin, chief executive of the Financial Services Council, said: “It is essential that the industry prepares the leaders of tomorrow and that we ensure that those leading our sector in 10, 20 or 30 years’ time are immersed in the big issues of today. This programme has been designed to support that.

“Conduct, culture and delivering the best possible consumer outcomes will be a constant and getting the sectors youngest and smartest to focus on these wider issues now will develop new ways of thinking for future innovation.”

The Financial Services Council also launched nominations for the Emerging Leaders Award, new for 2019, that is open to the emerging superstars across the industry who are showing real talent and commitment in playing their part in shaping the future of the industry.

Mark Daniels, a previous FSC award winner and the FSC’s Emerging Leader champion said, “being a part of this growing industry, helping to drive great customer outcomes and improving the financial wellbeing of New Zealanders is a passion of mine. Supporting the industry’s future leaders through the FSC’s Emerging Leaders programme is one way of really making a difference.”

The awards will be announced at the 2019 Gala Awards Dinner that is being held on the evening following the Emerging Leader sessions.