MSc Accounting and Finance, 2012
Market Risk Analyst, Shell Trading
How did you choose your career?
Three factors contributed to my decision. Firstly, this is an industry I am passionate about which offers me the chance to develop a sustainable long-term career. Secondly, the size of the company means that I have a great chance to gain exposure early on in my field. Thirdly, Shell offered a structured graduate scheme that provided abundant training resources.
Why did you choose to join your current employer?
The energy industry really interests me. Shell particularly spoke to me in a number of ways. For example, it encourages international mobility – there are many overseas opportunities available. In addition, Shell allows us to rotate assignments every three to four years, exposing us to different lines of business and culture. The company has put a strong focus on the Asia-Pacific region and aims to provide innovative energy solutions to countries such as China, which coincides with my long-term career aspirations.
What did LSE teach you that you have been able to put into practice at work?
People. LSE students come from diverse backgrounds and possess different strengths. I cannot stress enough how much I have learned from the people I studied with. My way of thinking, habits and attitude towards life were tremendously shaped and influenced by my experiences both in and outside of LSE classrooms and the interactions I had with people at the school. These experiences, together with the knowledge and skills I acquired, are directly relevant and applicable to my current day-to-day work, the most significant of which is the ability to think and work independently.
What’s your current role and what are you expected to achieve?
I am on my first rotation in the Oil Trading Market Risk team. My key responsibility is to manage the possibility of financial loss caused by market price movements. On a daily basis, I identify and investigate trading activity that can potentially create exposure to market risk and analyse the overall market risk that our global trading network is exposed to. With regard to expectations, I need to acquire an in-depth understanding of crude oil trading and improve risk measurement models to enhance the management of market risk.
Your most significant achievement?
One of my most significant achievements so far has been participating in the management of a $500m shipping project on top of my other full-time duties. My manager advised me that it would be a demanding task but I decided to volunteer after due consideration. The project team was under huge pressure to finish on time and my role required intensive engagement with various departments and teams including the most senior leaders of the organisation. I managed to deliver all the results on time and eventually helped to drive the project to completion, thanks to teamwork and to the time management and communication skills I developed at LSE.
Your most challenging task?
The difficult part of my job is the need to challenge senior trading managers about certain trades when they significantly affect the overall risk profile. To my surprise, the trading managers I have worked with thus far have been very reasonable and open. I cannot help but attribute this to the collaborative culture here at Shell.
What are the best and worst aspects of the job?
The best aspect is the variety of opportunities available in the company – you are encouraged to explore what you want to do and consciously develop your career in a way you choose, provided that you work hard and maintain a good attitude towards both tasks and people. The good work/life balance is also a definite plus. The downside, as you may expect, is that it can be hard to make a significant impact in an organisation of such scale and global reach, at least at the junior level.
How do you see your career progressing?
Long term – leveraging my experience in the UK. I aspire to develop my career in, and one day lead, Shell Asia. The idea of working in the company’s downstream headquarters and building professional relationships across the region already fascinates me.
What are the top skills that graduates should develop at LSE?
Building a good network of contacts is invaluable as you progress in your career. To get ahead you can start practising interpersonal and leadership skills by actively participating in student societies and career workshops. While you are still at university, take chances and make mistakes early while the costs of doing so are relatively low.
What is your best piece of advice for LSE students?
Reflect on your passions and the kind of life you want to lead and whether a certain career can help you fulfil your greatest dreams. Do lots of research; seek advice from many people and, excuse the cliché, follow your inner voice.