Before diving into the world of fund administration, I spent several years working with children. This experience, though seemingly unrelated, provided me with a wealth of skills that have proven invaluable in my current role.
One of the most significant skills I developed was, of course, patience. Children are incredibly demanding, and managing their needs taught me to stay calm and composed. This patience has become essential in fund administration, where meticulous attention to detail and a steady approach are key. Additionally, I honed an unusual skill—mastering the diablo—though it hasn’t yet found its place in my professional toolkit!
Communication is another area where my background with children has paid off. Simplifying complex messages to ensure understanding is something you quickly learn when working with kids. This ability to break down intricate information has been incredibly beneficial in an office environment, helping me anticipate questions and manage feedback effectively. Children are never shy about expressing their thoughts, and this has made me adept at handling spontaneous inquiries and concerns.
I have always been passionate about helping, coaching, and mentoring others. I firmly believe in the power of talking therapy, and counselling. This passion stems from personal experiences with mental health challenges faced by those close to me. It’s something I try to take forward in my career, and aim to be a mentor and be always there for the people around me.
As I progress in my career, I’ve become more confident in handling confrontations and managing conflicts. This courage comes with experience and from being in a supportive environment like Oakbridge, that encourages difficult conversations. It’s a skill I continuously develop, and one that I find particularly rewarding.
If I could be any superhero, I would choose Spider-Man. His heightened awareness—his Spider-Sense—would be invaluable in the workplace! It would be very useful to be able to anticipate and address issues before they escalate.
Someone recently asked me how I would survive a zombie apocalypse, and I tend to think like a doomsday prepper. I believe in the importance of preparation and organization. This mindset translates well into my work, where being prepared for any eventuality is crucial.
A bit of a nerdy fact about me: I’ve watched over 125 films this year! I use Letterboxd, the social network for film reviewers, to keep track of and review them. I’m particularly fond of psychological thrillers and cinema as an art form. My favourite film this year has been “Dune Part 2.”
I feel a slightly unorthodox route into working in fund administration means I’ve developed a diverse skill set that enriches my professional life, and allows me to bring a unique perspective to the field.