Since 2017, when the leadership and employees of Arnerich Massena adopted a “Diversity & Inclusion Manifesto” and launched a D&I Committee, the Portland, Oregon-based firm says it has been committed to fostering a culture that “inspires and nurtures the human spirit.” It also is committed to creating policies and procedures that reflect the diversity of its community. The committee meets regularly to arrange training and resources for employees, review hiring practices and offer recommendations to leadership about ways to continue to enhance the company’s DEI profile. “Since its founding, Arnerich Massena has recognized the importance and value of having diverse voices and perspectives across our leadership and client service teams, appreciating the positive impact it has on both firm governance and on clients’ long-term outcomes,” said Reegan Rae, co-CEO, managing principal and senior investment adviser. “We are pleased to be at the forefront of helping to bring change, and look forward to seeing the evolution of diversity, equity and inclusion principles across the industry.”
Internal initiatives the firm has supported include firm-wide training and professionally facilitated conversations among employees; building a robust resource library of educational materials; and creating a channel on its internal network for sharing recommendations about films, books, recipes and cultural experiences. Describing itself as an intentional investor, the firm says it helps clients align their investments with their values. As part of its manager research and selection process, the firm devotes a substantial section of its due diligence questionnaire to DEI issues, covering the makeup of boards, ownership and portfolio management teams, as well as how firms ensure an inclusive work environment.
Contact Jillian Perkins, director of communications, at jperkins@am-a.com.
— Evan Cooper