Unlocking the potential of neurodiversity in financial services

Neurodiversity can offer unique strengths and perspectives to the workplace that can drive innovation and inclusivity. Deutsche Bank recently featured in a whitepaper titled "Neurodiversity and the Workplace in Singapore: Unlocking Potential," commissioned by SGEnable and conducted by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). This study focuses on how businesses can unlock the potential of the nation’s neurodivergent population.

Understanding neurodiversity

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variations in how our brains process information and learn. Common neurodivergent conditions include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others. These conditions bring unique strengths such as deep focus, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Neurodiversity in financial services

Neurodivergent individuals often possess skills that are highly valuable in the financial services industry, such as exceptional attention to detail and analytical thinking. Individuals with autism, for instance, often possess exceptional pattern recognition and systematic thinking skills, highly valuable in financial analysis and risk management.

Deutsche Bank's Neurodiversity@Work Programme: a step towards inclusive employment

Deutsche Bank Singapore introduced its Work Placement Programme for persons with disabilities 10 years ago and piloted the Neurodiversity@workplace programme in 2022.

“Over the years, approximately 10 participants have transitioned to permanent roles through the work placement programme. Additionally, many others, out of the 50-60 trained by the bank, have found alternative employment opportunities,” said Bernd Starke, Head Corporate Coverage D/A/CH APAC, and Singapore lead for Deutsche Bank’s dbEnable employee resource group.  

Deutsche Bank received Singapore’s Platinum Enabling Mark for disability inclusion from SG Enable last year, for its efforts to foster an inclusive workplace and create equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Key aspects of the Neurodiversity@Work programme:

• Collaboration with experts: Deutsche Bank partners with organisations like the Autism Resource Center and SG Enable to equip managers and teams with the knowledge and tools to effectively support neurodivergent employees.
• Targeted job placement: The programme actively identifies job roles that align with the unique skills and competencies of neurodivergent individuals, ensuring both job satisfaction and optimal contribution to the bank.
• Comprehensive support system: Deutsche Bank provides a robust support network, including buddy systems and employee resource groups (ERGs), to foster a sense of belonging and inclusion.
• Adapted hiring practices: Deutsche Bank has revamped its hiring processes to be more inclusive, educating interviewers about neurodiversity and adapting communication styles to ensure a level playing field for all candidates.

The sustainability of the Neurodiversity@work programme is ensured by making it commercially driven, explains Raily Tissera, Asia Pacific Head of Human Resources for the Corporate Bank. “By aligning the skills of neurodivergent individuals with specific roles within the organization, the programme adds value to both the individual and the bank.”

“By fostering a neuro-inclusive environment, financial services can tap into this talent pool and drive business growth,” adds Starke.

The programme has already made significant strides, with six neurodivergent individuals successfully hired as interns. This success underscores Deutsche Bank's commitment to building a truly inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and nurtured.

To get more insights and recommendations on unlocking the potential of neurodiversity in Singapore, read the full "Neurodiversity and the Workplace in Singapore: Unlocking Potential" whitepaper here. 

dbEnable – empowering people with disabilities

dbEnable is Deutsche Bank’s employee resource group dedicated to supporting staff with disabilities. This network aims to foster an inclusive workplace by providing resources, advocacy, and community for employees with disabilities.