LLB Law, 1979
Solicitor's articled clerk
Head of London office for Swiss stockbroking firm Helvea.
I am responsible for a team of 8 sales traders servicing UK-based institutional investors. We specialise in Swiss equities. My skills are assimilating our analysts' research on stocks, communicating ideas to clients as per individual needs. Markets throw fast balls at you every day and you need to think on your feet, so flexibility, calmness and clarity are all important attributes for the job. Numeracy helps too. But building 6 maintaining client relationships over the long term is the key.
I've been in my current job since early 1989 and as we now own our own business it’s my favourite job.
Failing Law society part 2s. Best thing that ever happened to me. Made me really think about what to do rather than follow my parents' chosen path.
Being ranked number 1 in my niche for several years running.
Law involves assessing arguments and pros/cons. Stockbroking is all about weighing up risk/reward of stocks.
Have fun and don't think you have to follow the career route most appropriate for your chosen course.
Parental pressure.
When I was there the law faculty had a great reputation. I presume it still has? Also, the City has much to offer, not least a super football team.
Probably study something I was really interested in rather than a career type course. So, probably something like History or Archaeology.
A few