Why do you enjoy your job?
I enjoy my role in Operations because it is a great starting point to learn more about the fundamentals of the business. My role allows me to build relationships with people in other departments and other firms. My duties mainly consist of performing the checks-and-balances within the team and maintaining records. We carry out transfer instructions, check swing rates and the pricing of securities and produce reports. I enjoy the work because I need to keep everything organised and manage my time more efficiently, which was a skill I already needed to improve on.
What is the most challenging thing about your job?
The most challenging thing I find about my job is keeping on top of the invoices and instructions coming in from other departments and other firms. Initially, I was overwhelmed with the different procedures we have to carry out, and the technical terminology used here bewildered me. As time went on though, I learned what the different terms meant and, through practice, I learned how to carry out our usual tasks with more success.
How did you get into your job?
Representatives from the Investment20/20 programme gave a presentation at my schooI. I studied Business Management at Higher Level in school, and First State Investments was the first company I applied to. After a few online questionnaires, I missed the final Tuesday of my school life to attend the one-to-one interview. A few hours after leaving school on the final Friday, I got the call offering me the position. I’d done volunteering in a charity shop for a while and a week’s work experience but, this was would be my first real job out of school. So I took the chance and the Investment20/20 programme has given me the opportunity to travel down a road which I didn’t think would be available to someone my age.
What are your future aspirations?
This job has encouraged me to consider a future in finance. There are so many opportunities to consider in this industry. Short-term, I hope to be kept on at the end of my year’s contract and then possibly move around other departments to see their side of the business.
How would you sum up your Investment20/20 experience?
I couldn’t say a bad word about Investment20/20. I’d advise anyone considering joining to take in everything you can and learn as much as you can; it will stand you in good stead for the future.
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