Designed to run from a few weeks to several months, these immersive placements allow participants to contribute meaningfully to the business. Working closely with professionals across the firm – but primarily within our Investment Team – participants gain hands-on experience across key areas of the deal cycle. They are often involved in sector mapping exercises, due diligence preparation and expert calls, providing support to our core team which allows them to focus efforts on strategic priorities. The quality of work produced is designed to have a genuine impact on business operations, demonstrating the immediate value that these placements bring to both participants and teams alike.

We take a thoughtful and structured approach to integrating our placement candidates into the business. From day one, they receive clear briefings, are included in team meetings, and are supported with regular feedback to help them understand their strengths and identify areas for growth. This tailored support framework ensures that participants feel welcomed and empowered throughout their time at Oakley, fostering a strong sense of purpose and professional development.

Additionally, these placements often serve as a pipeline for future recruitment. In 2024, Oakley welcomed back two interns from our 2023 cohort and one intern from the 2024 programme as full-time members of the Investment Team. Their successful transition into permanent roles illustrates the effectiveness of the programme in identifying and nurturing high-potential talent who align with our values and culture.

The 2024 programme also reflected a number of positive developments. We were proud to host individuals from a wide range of geographical, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds, demonstrating the programme’s growing reach and appeal. Encouragingly, all participants indicated that they would recommend Oakley as a place to work to their friends and family.

Looking ahead to 2025, we aim to continue building on the programme’s success. The current structure has proven effective and is well-positioned for replication in future years. We also see scope to further enhance our approach to outreach and diverse recruitment, ensuring we attract candidates from a broad range of backgrounds and lived experiences. In addition, the programme offers an opportunity to involve junior members of our Investment Team in intern management and mentoring. This not only strengthens the support offered to participants but also enables our junior team members to develop leadership and firm-building skills of their own.

We believe that by offering practical, well-supported work experiences, these programmes continue to demonstrate the power of early exposure, structured development and meaningful engagement in shaping the careers of future leaders in our industry.