Ramon Wang

BMO Global Asset Management

Product Development Trainee |
School/College Leaver

Why do you enjoy your job?

I am currently working in the Product Development team, which covers fund launch, share class registration, eligible markets and many more aspects yet to explore! The team works closely with almost every other team in the business, including Investment, Legal, Compliance and Marketing, which has, given me a great exposure to the industry and asset management business. My role is very project oriented, and this further stretches on my time management and team work skills, which I developed during my involvement in extra curricular activities in school. My interest in business and market trends were also enriched over the last 6 months, where I was able to learn and contribute in team meetings and research calls. The overall professional experience is what I have enjoyed the most over this time—it is something very rewarding and challenging at the same time—and certainly a big step up from student life!

What is the most challenging thing about your job?

Finding the balance at work can be a great challenge, especially for school leavers who are only just starting their career journeys. A lot of the projects and tasks assigned to me entail a variety of difficulty and skill sets, and it is down to me to learn, understand and carry out them in the most effective manner. My team has made my adaptation a very smooth experience and the support I have received has further prompted me to take more responsibility in my work.

How did you get into your job?

At sixth form I studied A Level Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Economics . Although I had previously taken work experience in the industry in different areas, this is by far the biggest step I have taken! I had always wanted to join Financial Services but was unsure of what exactly I wanted to do. Therefore, it surprised me how diverse and wide the spectrum stretches across within the industry—you can literally walk in with any background and find something that would be of great interest to you.

The Investment 20/20 programme is a great opportunity to understand and learn about the various aspects within asset management—hearing from speakers of different backgrounds, positions and specialisations have installed much interest and curiosity for me. Meeting the Investment20/20 peers during these events not only allowed me to build my network but also encouraged me to feel more confident in my role—there are many more people alike in the same boat!

What are your future aspirations?

This program has been a great opportunity to find out more about myself. When I was at school, I did not have the exact picture of what I want to do, what I am capable of or what I am interested in. However, 6 months into my role, I am much clearer of my interest and skill sets. I have self-subscribed to the Investment Management Certificate (IMC) course with the support from my team and I am excited to have passed Level 1! I will continue to put in 100% of my effort in my work and this is something that I want to further build up on in my career.

How would you sum up your Investment20/20 experience?

The road that leads you from the school ground to the Asset Management industry—an incredible experience!

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