Vivian Lin Thurston: professional and community activities
The field of investment has undergone significant change since its inception. However, some aspects remain less amenable to change. One such factor is the glass ceiling that limits the opportunities for women to build successful careers. Vivian Lin Thurston has managed to break through this barrier. She is proving that the investment field is open to all.
The P&I 2024 ranking named Vivian the most influential woman in the institutional investment sector. This status speaks to her merit and high level of professionalism. The list is part of the Influential Women in Institutional Investing programme, which aims to highlight women who play a key role in the industry’s development. The initiative also aims to promote equality and drive change in the industry.
Vivian Thurston is a portfolio manager at William Blair and she has been instrumental in transforming the firm and strengthening its position in the investment market. She was instrumental in developing the China A-shares strategy. She was also actively involved in the opening of the firm’s Shanghai office. Vivian’s responsibilities as Portfolio Manager include:
– portfolio management for China A-shares;
– investment market research;
– marketing;
– trading and financial operations;
– supporting the Emerging Markets Growth, China A-Shares Growth and Emerging Markets ex China Growth strategies.
Thurston is actively developing William Blair’s business in China. She has travelled to the country 15 times and held 350 meetings. Vivian has met with CEOs, local investors, financial experts and policymakers. The purpose of these events was to find ways of sustaining the Chinese market and increasing profitability. Thurston reviewed local business prospects for investment opportunities.
Community activities
Vivian Thurston’s successful career at William Blair is just one aspect of her multifaceted personality. She moved to the United States in 1996 to attend the University of Illinois. To this day, she remains an active member of the Chinese community and is involved in promoting the national culture. Thurston also supports women in their pursuit of self-fulfilment, helping them develop careers in finance.
In 2009, she founded the Chinese Finance Association of America in Chicago. The organisation aims to help Chinese women adjust to life in the US. Thurston has also been involved in the Imprint programme at the University of Illinois. The initiative targets undergraduate students and helps them develop their leadership skills.
Vivian has also established a named scholarship for sociology graduate students through her foundation. She also funds scholarships for students at Peking University whose projects contribute to community development.
