Deputy Treasurer for Canary Wharf Group. I oversee the liquidity and risk team and treasury operations and systems.
I started my career in private banking right after my graduation, and then moved into investment banking and then the derivatives department at HypoVereinsbank AG where I gained invaluable experience in financial markets. Seeking to broaden my skills, I joined UBS AG's analyst training program, immersing myself in departments like data management, FX, options, and cash management. As a member of the 'Change the Bank' team, I developed an interest in transformation within the financial sector.
I transitioned to a corporate finance role when I moved to Cargill PLC, where I played pivotal roles in treasury operations, automating front office execution, and leading transformation initiatives. I then moved to Waypoint Capital, where I honed my expertise in banking relationships, risk management, and process enhancements. From there I moved to Virgin Atlantic, where I led the treasury operations team during the pandemic, and contributed to a successful recapitalisation.
I then moved to the real estate sector with Logicor, where I spearheaded their cash management rationalisation. In my recent role at Canary Wharf Group, leading liquidity & risk and treasury operations & systems, I focus on managing liquidity, collaborating with credit agencies and investors, and navigating debt and upcoming refinancing strategies.
Throughout my career, I've remained committed to driving operational excellence, leveraging technology, and fostering collaborative teams to achieve organisational goals.
Having had the opportunity to work in both financial institutions and corporates, I've found enjoyment and fulfilment in each sector for different reasons. In financial institutions, particularly investment banking, I appreciated the fast-paced environment and the dynamic nature of financial markets. The constant challenge of navigating complex transactions and staying ahead of market trends kept me engaged and stimulated.
On the other hand, working in corporates, particularly in roles related to corporate finance and treasury operations, allowed me to directly contribute to the strategic objectives of the organisation. I enjoyed the sense of ownership and impact that came with implementing transformation initiatives and optimising processes to improve efficiency and profitability.
Overall, I don't have a singular "most enjoyable" sector as I've found fulfillment in different aspects of each. Both sectors have provided valuable learning experiences and opportunities for growth, shaping me into a well-rounded professional with a diverse skill set.
What I find most appealing about working in treasury is the opportunity to play a pivotal role in managing an organisations financial resources effectively. Treasury involves strategic decision-making related to cash management, liquidity, risk management, and capital allocation, which I find intellectually stimulating. Additionally, the collaborative nature of treasury work, involving interactions with various stakeholders such as internal teams, external partners, and financial institutions, fosters a dynamic and engaging environment. Overall, I'm a people person, and working in treasury plays to my strengths.
My favourite project within the corporate arena, involved collaborating with the IT team at Cargill to develop, design, and implement a trading platform for internal clients for FX execution. I had a clear vision for this project, and the leadership team believed in it, providing me with the necessary resources to bring it to life. It was incredibly rewarding to see my vision flourish as we worked together to build, design, test, and implement the trading platform. The project not only enhanced our FX execution capabilities but also reduced front office traders' time spent on manual tasks, allowing them to focus more on value-added activities. This shift in focus ultimately increased productivity and profitability for the organisation, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovation within the treasury function. It was truly fulfilling to see the positive impact of my effort on the efficiency and effectiveness of our treasury operations
Members of the treasury team should possess a strong grasp of how various systems and processes interconnect within the financial landscape.Think baout it like you're exploring the inner working of a game, understanding the mechanics is key. Ultimately, technology serves as an enabler, but its effectiveness relies on understanding your data. Lean Six Sigma methodology has equipped me to continually challenge existing processes, leading to a clearer understanding of the systems needed to address specific issues.
Trust your instincts
To succeed, treasurers need strong communication skills, the ability to maintain a broad perspective while focusing on specifics, and the knack for connecting various departments seamlessly. Effective communication is key for conveying financial information and building relationships. Treasurers must balance a wide vision with attention to detail and facilitate collaboration among different departments.
My iPhone!
In addition to travelling and indulging in chocolate, I prioritise my health and well-being by participating in F45 classes. These workouts not only keep me physically fit but also provide a refreshing mental break, allowing me to approach my work with renewed energy and focus.