Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Hi, I’m Hartik. I graduated with a degree in Computer Science from Royal Holloway, where I also completed a year in industry. During my studies, I developed a deep interest in both software engineering and problem-solving through various projects and internships. Outside of work, I’m a passionate football fan (although being a Manchester United supporter has its ups and downs!). In my free time, I love producing & making music as well as occasionally playing video games to help me unwind.
What is your role and how long have you been at Nuveen?
I’m currently a Technology Analyst, and I’ve been at Nuveen for just over a year now. It’s been a fantastic experience so far. The role has not only allowed me to work on cutting-edge technologies in application development and automation, but also taught me a lot about collaboration and the importance of business-driven technology. Being surrounded by incredibly talented people has made the learning process even more rewarding.
What inspired you to apply for this role / Nuveen?
Firstly, the culture stood out to me—there’s a genuine emphasis on continuous learning and development, as well as a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The collaborative environment makes it easy to share ideas and get support from others, which really helps drive innovation.
Moreover, Nuveen’s leadership in the financial services sector, particularly its forward-thinking approach to technology & data-driven decision-making, resonated with me. The opportunity to contribute to projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible with technology was exactly what I was looking for in my career.
What has been the single most important thing you learnt so far in your job?
The most important thing I’ve learned is how to blend technical expertise with interpersonal skills. At Nuveen, technical ability is just one part of the equation—being able to effectively communicate with cross-functional teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and adapt to new challenges are equally important. These soft skills, combined with a technical foundation is something that I found very important to learn.
What would a ‘normal’ day look like for someone in your role?
A typical day for me starts with a team stand-up where we discuss ongoing projects and any blockers. I usually spend the first half of the day focusing on development work, whether it's automating tests using Selenium or building out new features. The afternoons are often dedicated to reviewing code with teammates, discussing solutions or attending strategy meetings to ensure we’re aligned with business goals. There’s a good balance between technical tasks and cross-team collaboration.
What do you find most interesting with the sector you’re in?
I find it fascinating how the financial services sector is being transformed by technology. The ability to use data to drive smarter decision-making is something that really excites me. It’s interesting to see how quickly these technologies are evolving and how they can be applied to improve both operational efficiency and client outcomes.
What is the culture like?
The culture at Nuveen is incredibly supportive and collaborative. There’s a strong focus on continuous learning, which is evident in the way teams share knowledge and help each other grow. It’s also very inclusive—there’s a commitment to diversity, and everyone is encouraged to contribute their unique perspectives. I feel like I’m part of a team that values innovation, creativity, and teamwork, which makes working here both rewarding and enjoyable.
How important is diversity to you and what is Nuveen doing in this space at the moment?
Diversity is something that is deeply personal to me. Coming from an ethnic minority background, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of inclusion and representation. At Nuveen, I’ve been encouraged by the genuine commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The company actively promotes diversity through employee resource groups, various programs, and initiatives focused on inclusion. These efforts make Nuveen a place where everyone, regardless of background, feels valued and empowered to contribute.
How did you find the application process?
The application process was smooth and well-structured. I appreciated the emphasis on getting to know candidates beyond just their technical skills. The interviews were more conversational, which allowed me to showcase my problem-solving approach and soft skills. The recruitment team was very supportive and kept me informed throughout the process, which made the experience really positive.
Finally, any tips for anyone who’d like to apply for a role at Nuveen?
For anyone looking to apply for a graduate role at Nuveen, I’d recommend focusing on a few key areas. First, highlight your adaptability and willingness to learn. As someone just finishing university, it’s important to show that you’re eager to develop both your technical and soft skills. Nuveen values individuals who are proactive and can think critically about how technology can solve business problems.
Also, emphasize any hands-on experience you gained during your degree, internships, or projects, and be prepared to discuss how these experiences shaped your approach to teamwork and problem-solving. Lastly, research Nuveen’s culture and values, especially the focus on innovation and collaboration—demonstrating a good cultural fit will show that you’re ready to contribute to their mission from day one.