Chris completed a double Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Science degree at the University of New South Wales in 2004 and joined KPMG in 2005. While there he applied for a graduate position at Citigroup, having leant about the group during his studies. He joined in the 2006 graduate intake.
What roles have you had at Citigroup?
For the first three months, I was on a rotation in investment research, focusing on healthcare and emerging growth companies. My studies in biotechnology made healthcare a good fit, which is something the business tries to do – match your skills with the needs of the business. The next rotation was onto the portfolio trading desk, which is where I still am. The energy levels in trading are far more intense than in research. It really suits my personality and I love it. I couldn't be in a better place to learn about equities.
What does your work involve?
The trading side is very energetic, very client based. I was amazed to find just how much everything is focused on the client. In the morning, our team might receive a basket of stocks, possibly up to 100, and a trading benchmark. Before the market opens, we look at investment research on the stocks, the international markets, risk, and put together a strategy to determine how best to serve the client. It can be hard for traders to keep on top of all the research, so I try to form that bridge between research and trading, and it’s a great way to get your head around things.
What’s next for you?
I could see myself staying here for years. It’s never boring. The way the market moves is constantly exciting. Our team has a flat structure, but as you get more experienced, you take on more responsibilities – more complicated trades, sophisticated portfolios, different clients.
Chris'tips:
- Be yourself. In interviews, present yourself as you are. If you try to be something you’re not, you will be caught out in the energetic atmosphere of the trading floor.
- Understand quickly that you’re here for client service. If your clients are not satisfied, you lose business.
- You’ve really got to pull your own weight and earn the respect of your team.
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