Kim Powell: Credit Suisse graduate
Employer: Credit Suisse
University: University of Cambridge
Subject: BA computer science
I decided to pursue a career in IT while at school – having found my IT GCSE and A level straightforward I decided to apply to Cambridge to read computer science. While there I undertook several internships (including one at Credit Suisse). I was looking for short-term placements that would provide an insight into the working world. I applied for an internship at my organisation, was successful and got recommended for a graduate role as a business analyst in the fixed income team off the back of it.
My job
Credit Suisse is a global financial services company, offering clients financial advice on all aspects of investment banking, private banking and asset management. I am the lead business analyst for bond and loan syndication in fixed income IT. This involves designing new functionality for applications, scheduling releases and maintaining vendor relationships. Essential skills for a front-office facing business analyst include patience, a broad skill set and the ability to work well under pressure. I have had specialist training in Lean Sigma, and I am currently studying for the BCS ISEB business analysis diploma, which my employer is funding.
My work environment
I work in Canary Wharf for most of the week and spend time visiting the trade floor and meeting vendors for coffee or lunch. I am also fortunate in that I have been granted permission to work from home as needed. My hours vary but I try to work from 9.00 am to 5.30 pm. However, on odd occasions I have had to work longer hours and weekends. I have also been to work in New York twice and Zurich once – if travel is required it’s usually mandatory, and personal commitments have to be dropped to accommodate it.
Career highlights
Rolling out our bond syndication application to a whole new business area in New York was a definite highlight. Initially they voted not to use the application but, with a lot of determination on my part, I had them all successfully using it within a week.