Tell us about what you do at BNP Paribas.
I ensure that our investments and ex-post compliance check of agency corporate lending are compliant with the guidelines as outlined by our internal rules and German law. For that I notably perform market compliance controls, by examining transaction prices, associated guarantees, our customers’ ratings, etc. We use sophisticated IT tools such as Bloomberg to facilitate our work on a daily basis. I am also personally involved in IT projects geared towards automating as many of our processes as possible. Our goal is to expand our analyses while reducing our margins of error.
What is the hardest part of the job?
Hailing from India, learning German was the biggest challenge for me. Just imagine having to dissect legal documents in a language that you do not fully know. Internal meetings are held in German too, as well as most interactions with customers. Fortunately, my manager and my colleagues are very understanding and let me improve at my own pace. They encourage me to practice the language, even if I make mistakes.
Why did you choose to work in Germany?
Just to be different! It’s true that most other Indians opt for the United Kingdom, but Germany has always held a special attraction for me, despite the language and cultural differences. After receiving my Master’s from the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, I just wanted to keep my German adventure going!
You joined BNP Paribas in September 2014, after working at several other banks. What brought you here?
The spirit of openness at the Group. I had more trouble fitting in at a German bank in India, my home country, than at an institution with French roots in Germany! At just 26 years of age, I am already exposed to strategic investment issues and global large clientele. The Group has given me self-confidence. In short, I felt right away at home here—despite a little “gaffe” during my job interview.
Would you mind telling us about it?
I had prepared to answer extremely complex questions, so much so that I was caught off guard when my interviewer, the Head of Fund Services of Depotbank (German subsidiary of BNP Paribas), asked me one simple question: “What is the BNP Paribas share price?” I had to admit that I did not know. Even though he appreciated my honesty and natural attitude, he made me promise to learn everything about the company I was hoping to join. I will never forget that lesson!
“ Working at BNP Paribas means evolving at a company that is open to the international side of banking. It offers the perfect setting to learn and advance your career. You will feel at home if you love to take on new challenges and are eager to grow and push the limits. In a changing world, BNP Paribas is where you want to work: the experience you have here will definitely surpass your expectations! ”
Financial Back Office Manager
