|
What did you study at university and why?
I graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Commerce and
Bachelor of Laws. For me, commerce was always a discipline I wanted to explore
because the employment opportunities seemed wide-ranging. The law part of my
decision was a little more spontaneous and I just thought the additional degree
could give me slightly more of an edge.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I’ve always wanted to be an investment consultant at Watson Wyatt! Well maybe
that does sound a little far fetched! Seriously, when I was a kid, I always
wanted to be either a doctor or lawyer. There’s just something about the white
coat and courtrooms that kind of appealed to me. Luckily I grew up.
back to top
Why did you join Watson Wyatt?
I always wanted to work for a firm with global status. So I applied for
positions at consulting firms with offices worldwide. What set Watson Wyatt
apart for me was simply the fact that every representative I met from the
company was friendly, professional, and approachable and interesting, which
painted a firm culture I was particularly attracted to.
back to top
How long have you been at Watson Wyatt?
I’ve been at Watson Wyatt for about one and a half years.
back to top
What does your role involve at Watson Wyatt?
My role as an investment analyst is varied and ranges from performing technical
analytical work to getting involved in qualitative research. Some examples of
what I do on a daily basis include preparation of monthly and quarterly
investment reports for clients, review of a fund’s asset allocation and
investment policy as well as investment manager selection and monitoring. Given
my legal background at university, a small part of my role entails providing the
practice with relevant legal and compliance issues as they arise.
back to top
What do you like best about working at Watson Wyatt?
In my short time here, I have seen that Watson Wyatt works hard to constantly
challenge and develop their employees by providing variety in the work that they
do and giving them exposure to clients as early as possible. In addition, I find
that working with people that I am also happy to socialise with on a daily basis
makes the challenges and demands of the work much more enjoyable. When I first
joined Watson Wyatt in May 2005, I was an actuarial analyst within the Actuarial
and Employee Benefits consulting practice. In April 2006, I transferred to the
Investment Consulting practice as an Investment Analyst. The flexibility in
allowing me to make that decision provides further evidence that Watson Wyatt
supports its employees in pursuing the career path that is most suited to them..
back to top
What do you like least about working at Watson Wyatt?
Lollies on Fridays and cakes on every last Friday of the month! It makes it
really difficult to watch my weight.
back to top
What things do you do outside of work?
Recently I haven’t been doing much except studying outside of work! But since
sitting for my exam, I’ve had plenty of time for other recreational activities.
I’ve recently gone on a health kick and have decided to get fit, so I’ve been
spending much of my time outside of work getting active with lots of bike rides
and jogs around the park (and shopping which is one of my favourite recreational
hobbies!)
back to top
How has Watson Wyatt supported you with the things you’re involved in
outside of work?
One thing which I am particularly grateful for is the immense support that is
provided to employees who are pursuing further studies while working full-time.
The support comes not only with generous tuition support including study leave
and financial support but also rewards for succeeding and plenty of moral
support. Their approach to this emphasises Watson Wyatt’s encouragement for
employees to seek professional qualifications which are highly valued in the
industry—another example of how Watson Wyatt supports its staff in professional
development.
back to top
If there was anyone in the world you could have dinner with, whom would it
be, and why?
I would probably have to say my grandfather who passed away when I was very
young. He was reputed to have been a lovely and interesting person among the
family so it would be nice to have gotten to know him better.
back to top
|
