Manuela Gutierrez Lizarazo

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Barings

Compliance Trainee |

School/College Leaver

Why do you enjoy your job?

I currently work in the compliance monitoring team. I never thought I would end up on a regulatory role, as I was mainly interested on a finance role. After working in my team for 5 months, I have realised the regulatory side of Investment Management, can also be an interesting field as it gives me exposure to different aspects of the business. Thanks to that exposure, I have learnt so much, I now look back 5 months ago, and I cannot believe the knowledge I have gained during my time in Barings.

What is the most challenging thing about your job?

Something I have always struggled with is reading – working in compliance requires reading long FCA handbooks and this can get really challenging for me, but I know it will give me the necessary tools to understand how the industry is regulated and therefore it is something I have had to learn as part of my job.

How did you get into your job?

I was part of the Think Investments programme 2018-2019 and this made a huge difference as it made me re-consider whether to go to university or not. The programme also developed my confidence and a skill set that is required when applying for a job. As the programme came to an end I decided to apply to the different roles on the Investment20/20 website – This then enabled me to secure my role at Barings on the Investment20/20 Traineeship programme.

What are your future aspirations?

I have completed an Introduction to Investment Management Course with the Investment Association and I am currently completing an Introductory Compliance qualification, which will contribute, positively on my career. I am keen to continue developing my knowledge in the industry as a whole as well as in Compliance in order to successfully progress on my career.

How would you sum up your Investment20/20 experience?

I would recommend the Investment20/20 programme to every young individual who wants to pursuit a career within the Financial Sector. They will have the opportunity to attend different events that will develop further knowledge as well as social events which are great to interact with other trainees from different companies and make new friends. I can definitely say the programme gets your foot on the door to endless opportunities in the industry.