The Journey of a Data Enthusiast: Nancy’s Story

A Data-Driven Journey

In the world of finance, numbers tell a story, and no one understands this better than Nancy. She has built a strong reputation as a Reporting Analyst in the Enterprise Risk Management team at Ayvens. Originating from Tirana, Albania, Nancy’s journey to the Netherlands for her studies has shaped her into the data enthusiast she is today.

From Student Life to Professionalism

After finishing  her studies, Nancy was excited to start her career.  “I knew I wanted to work right away before I pursued my master’s,” she recalls. At the time, she wasn’t sure which direction to take, but her interest in Financial Risk Management led her to join Risketeers. “I considered working in the field before advancing in my studies, and I’ve come to the conclusion that it was a smart choice. The benefits of my position include dealing with multiple risk areas from both a data and financial perspective, which gives you a good head start toward your career, not only in Risk Management,” she explains.

Navigating Workplace Dynamics

One of the biggest changes for Nancy was moving from university to a corporate environment. “This is the first time I’ve fully dedicated my time to a job, as I previously always did internships alongside my studies,” she explains.  The corporate culture can be overwhelming, especially for a junior employee surrounded by experienced professionals. “It took some time to adjust, but asking questions and being open to learning made all the difference,” she admits. With the help of her mentor, Nancy had the chance to gain insight and advice on how to build up her confidence in taking on her new responsibilities. Her mentor was also able to help her figure out what her strengths were through direct coaching and taught her ways she could apply those strengths to the workplace.

The Art of Balancing Skills

In her role, Nancy emphasizes the importance of balancing technical skills with soft skills. “While technical skills are appreciated, soft skills make you stand out. This includes stakeholder management, prioritization, effective communication, and setting boundaries at your workplace,” she shares. She recognizes that while some individuals may have a natural affinity for these skills, they can also be developed over time.

Advice for Aspiring Risketeers

For those considering a role at Risketeers, Nancy has insightful advice: “It’s completely normal to feel unprepared or unsure about the skills required for the job. That’s what a traineeship is for!” she emphasizes. Through dedicated mentorship, mentors offer ongoing guidance and share their expertise, ensuring that each trainee gets personalized support to develop essential skills, build confidence, and achieve their career goals. She encourages aspiring professionals to embrace this opportunity for growth, reminding them that the learning process is ongoing. “I’ve gained invaluable skills on the job, and everyone around me has been eager to help and patient,” she shares. The key, according to Nancy, is to demonstrate a genuine interest in the field and a strong willingness to learn and contribute. “What is most important is a demonstrated interest in the field and a willingness to learn and contribute,” she concludes.