Wrapping up our 2025 mentoring programme

This morning, we co-hosted a networking breakfast with Anna Hartropp for the 2025 cohort of mentees in the Investor Relations Society’s mentoring programme, and it provided a helpful moment to reflect on how the programme is experienced in practice.

What stood out most was the clear, practical value of mentoring and the extent to which it is not a one-way exchange. It was also encouraging to hear that most participants had themselves proactively chosen to take part, then supported by their line manager or corporate, valuing the external sounding board that the relationship provides.

And that many also felt they had been able to provide alternative perspectives to their mentors, reminding us that learning flows in both directions.

We discussed how mentoring conversations can differ significantly, but what is important, is that mentees communicate exactly which approach will be most beneficial when forming these relationships.

If you would be interested in joining the 2026 programme, either as a mentee or mentor please register your interest here.

Many thanks to Anna Hartropp for the continued support of our mentoring programme, enabling us to offer these informal meetings, and facilitate peer-to-peer discussion.

Published 15 January, 2026