The financial services industry is at a crossroads. It is eager to ensure its longevity by enticing the next generation of bright, young recruits taking their first steps in the world of work, but hamstrung by negative stereotypes perpetuated amongst graduates and school leavers about working hours and company culture.

Traditionally, many of the UK’s leading firms have relied on using a small number of well-established entry points — such as top-tier universities — when recruiting young people into their organisations.