What's your job about?
Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation services the superannuation of the Australian public service and the Australian Defence Force. I am currently working as part of the investment operations team and I am responsible for measuring, reporting and analysing investment performance data. I have set daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly tasks that revolve around providing the investment team and other stakeholders with timely and accurate information and insights.
What's your background?
I grew up on the Gold Coast in Queensland where I did my schooling and moved up to Brisbane to attend the University of Queensland. After graduating with a Bachelor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, I worked as a research and development engineer at PWR Performance Products. After deciding that engineering was not my passion, I went back to study for a Masters of Applied Finance. Upon graduating, I applied for the graduate program at CSC, and I have been in the role since February 2021.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
I think anyone with an analytical background with an aptitude for mathematics would be able to do my job. In saying that, there would be a steeper learning curve for those who don’t have any background knowledge in finance or investments. This job requires strong attention to detail, good time management, and problem-solving skills. I would also say interest in the financial markets is quite beneficial.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
I think the coolest thing about my job is knowing that the reports and analysis that I do can impact the decisions made by the investment team, resulting in trades and transactions to alter our portfolios. Another interesting aspect of my job is that processes are constantly evolving, and I am able to drive change from a very early stage in my career.
What are the limitations of your job?
I would say that a large portion of the work is time-sensitive, and deadlines can be quite strict. There can often be competing deadlines on the same day or even the same hour, and this requires a level of time management but also some composure. Even though this can be the case, I have a very supportive team where we can help each other out if too many piles up on someone’s plate.