ABOUT FIG

A pioneer in its field, the Norfolk and Norwich Financial Industry Group (Fig) brings together the banking, insurance and finance sector to support future growth.

Fig is an independent non-profit body which promotes and develops the financial industry in Norfolk and is a sector group for Shaping Norfolk’s Future economic development partnership between the public and private sectors. Fig acts as a catalyst and broker to meet the needs of the industry in order to keep it thriving and keep it local.

The independent representative of the sector, Fig works through partnerships to strengthen the cluster’s position as a leading Centre of Financial Excellence:-

Fig has hosted in Norwich, national figures with influence in the sector including the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, the FSA’s Head of Industry Training, members of the Monetary Policy Committee, Director-General of the CBI and the Governor of the Bank of England

It has continued to increase Norwich's profile and improve links with financial institutions and embassies overseas, including China, India, Australia, Brazil, the Netherlands and the USA.

Since its establishment in 2001 and working in partnerships, notably with City College Norwich, the Financial Industry Group played a key role in:

• The establishment and development of the National Skills Academy for Financial Services in Norwich, worth £3.5 million.
• The creation and development of the first Foundation Degree in Financial Services in the UK which combines study, employment and both an academic and a professional qualification.
• The development of the Norwich Academy of Finance for 16 year olds, which completed a portfolio of life-long training for the sector.
• The establishment of the first School of Financial Services outside London, providing classroom support for a growing portfolio of professional qualifications to meet the local sectors’ needs.
• The award to City College, Norwich of status as a Centre of Vocational Excellence in Financial Services, generating an additional £0.5 million to enhance sector training at the College.
• The creation and development of the pioneering and popular annual publication, the Norfolk Professional Institutes’ Event Guide, a partnership between local professional institutes.

The Financial Industry Group is led by Director Marjorie Eade