What did you do before coming to work at Citywide?

After graduating from university, I worked part time with a FinTech company as a data analyst, alongside working in the P.E department of my old secondary school.  

You’re a recent graduate, what did you study?

I studied Economics and Finance at the University of Southampton and completed my masters last year at the University of Bristol in Banking Regulation and Financial Stability. 

What led you to choose to study banking and finance?

I had family working in the industry and so it piqued my interest growing up, and studying Economics at A Level furthered that interest. After attending an annual lecture at the Royal Economics Society, I knew I wanted to explore the sector further at university. During my undergraduate degree I really enjoyed the more applied modules, focussing on investment management and touching on the banking sector. When I saw the prospectus for my masters it leaned more towards a specialised economics and finance degree with a focus on the banking sector and the roles of central banks. I was drawn in by the application of economic theory and the range of topics covered within the financial sector, from blockchains in FinTech to derivatives and other alternative investments.  

How does that relate to the personal finance world of your current role?

I was always particularly interested the investment-focussed modules in my university course. I enjoy the portfolio analysis and the balance between risk and return. Random walk theory and the efficient market hypothesis are absolutely applicable in the conversation around active management vs indexing.  

With personal finance however, it’s everything that goes above and beyond just the investment management. From taxation to estate planning, we offer clients support with all aspects of their financial circumstances, not just their investment portfolios. It’s this holistic approach that drew me to personal finance and Citywide particularly over the alternatives. 

Do you enjoy direct contact with the clients?

I wouldn’t say I talk to clients daily but certainly if they have any questions about any documentation we may have sent them, or to discuss project work we may be undertaking for them. It’s a nice way of putting voices to the names we see on our screens and personalising the whole process.  

What are your future aspirations for your career in personal finance?

I’d like to gain some qualifications through the CISI or the CFA, and then transfer those learnings into an analyst or paraplanning role. However, I really enjoy the process of breaking down concepts into a digestible format to present to people and providing solutions to problems that arise. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge base and one day feeling equally as comfortable in personal finance as an adviser perhaps.  

What do you do outside of work?

I enjoy staying active, be that playing rugby for Old Tiffinians, going for a run, or even just taking my dog out for a walk by the Thames. 

What is your proudest achievement?

Probably getting a distinction on my masters despite it being throughout COVID, specifically earning a distinction on my dissertation. It was tough with the distractions of COVID and the lockdowns alongside the lack of face-to-face interactions but zoom calls did have their advantages: I studied from my bedroom in London for a course in Bristol working closely with a supervisor from Birmingham. To finish it was an achievement in itself, and then to learn I got a distinction, I was very proud of that. 

What music do you like?

Quite a variety to be honest. I think if I play my Spotify on shuffle anything could pop up. From rock to UK rap, to LoFi hip hop, and some of the classics. I’m also really enjoying podcasts at the moment on my commute. I’m looking forward to going to Glastonbury this summer with my girlfriend and some friends. I’m excited to see Loyle Carner and Arctic Monkeys, and I’ll probably end up seeing Elton John as it is one of his last performances. 

What is your favourite film?

The Life of Pi. I read the book after watching the film. I thought the book was a little slow compared to how I remembered the movie, but then the end of the book was much better in comparison. 

What is your favourite book?

Flashboys by Michael Lewis.  

What is your favourite food?

If I had to eat one food every day for the rest of my life, it would have to be pizza.