We caught up with James, Associate Director at Berenberg, to find out what he loves about the work he does and why you should consider a career with them.
What do you love about your job?
Variety. From day to day you can go from talking to an investor about JD Wetherspoons, to going to a manufacturing plant to see a UK Engineering firm, to supporting an IPO by helping to raise money for an exciting new business that could help shape our future. Every day is different and very few calls or meetings are the same.
What is it that you love about working for Berenberg?
Autonomy and ability to build your own franchise within the firm. From the start, I feel I’ve been encouraged to have my own opinion or ideas, and help to differentiate myself within the industry while still under the Berenberg banner. I think that supports idea generation, and makes you feel like you’re making a difference from within.
What skills/characteristics do you possess that have helped you thrive in your role?
I think the most important thing is to be inquisitive. I think that’s a more natural ability that can’t really be taught where as some of the financial/technical/market knowledge can be, and indeed much of that comes with experience.
Best experience at Berenberg?
Work wise, being involved in the largest UK IPO of 2021. Recreationally, playing in a work football tournament at Stamford Bridge.
What surprised you the most about Berenberg once you started working here?
The speed at which you have the chance to be revenue generating. The Grad Scheme gives you a great base but within months of moving to a full time team, you can be client facing and supporting the firm’s efforts.
What if anything has Berenberg done to invest in your professional or personal development?
Within my first 5 years I was asked and trusted to help build a new franchise in an area Berenberg had had no involvement in before. Clearly, there was support from those around me, but that’s a great degree of responsibility given the level of experience giving me exposure to more things at a very early stage of my career.