Typical Day

I usually arrive in the office between 7:30 and 8:00 and it is difficult to say when we will wrap up for the day. Because our credit approval and trading functions are located in Toronto, the time difference is the biggest factor influencing our schedules – there is really no “typical day” in our group.

On the Structured Products desk in London, five people cover three major functions: structuring, trading, and sales. My focus so far has been on the sales side, but in such a small group everyone has to have a good understanding of all sides of the business. I provide support to all members of the team – there is never a lack of client follow-up, market analysis or structuring work. The majority of my time is spent in the development of new business and in the maintenance and enhancement of relationships with existing accounts- this can be anything from creating marketing material to making sales calls (on phone/in person). A big part of my job is finding ways to reach more clients, while more effectively delivering our service to existing clients. This means that on a daily basis I have to stay on top of credit market news, new deals being launched, and the movements of prospective investors.

The environment is not as fast-paced “minute to minute” as a flow product sales and trading desk. Because our trades are larger transactions with longer timelines and many detailed steps, innovative thinking and attention to detail are crucial to success.