Read Soffia's story
Why did you choose to join HSBC?
"I wanted to join HSBC because the graduate programme is different from all the other trainee programmes in Brazil. Each graduate has the opportunity to work on different desks. Not only does HSBC invest in graduates, the Bank is also doing a lot for Brazil and for the financial interconnectivity of the region."
What's your programme like?
"My programme offers a lot of variety. I've really benefited from all the rotations I've been on - and from the support of the teams I've worked with. The learning curve is very steep. Right now I'm in Foreign Exchange, but I've also been in Balance Sheet Management. I've learned about treasury products and regulatory issues. It's important that we have the latest knowledge and expertise to share with our clients. At every step, I've had a very available mentor. So, I am able to discuss my career development whenever I need to."
What's it like to work at HSBC?
"When I joined, I was surprised at how excited and passionate the people here are. HSBC is a global bank and our position in the market means we can offer better opportunities to our clients. Markets are changing rapidly and we're part of an important moment in Brazil."
How does HSBC's global focus affect you?
"One of the graduates who joined at the same time I did is already working in New York. Two weeks ago, I joined the Foreign Exchange Sales desk. In my first week, I was able to contribute to the daily activities of the desk by helping global companies buy or sell foreign exchange to meet their supplier obligations and transmit dividends to their parent company. One of the most exciting things I do is follow the global market's reactions to latest news.
What's a typical working day like?
"I like to get to work early so I can read the news. Markets never sleep so I spend an hour with research and newspapers as soon as I get to the office. Then, customers start calling and they don't stop until 7:00pm. My days are long, but I like that. There's always so much to do and learn."
Tell us more about your personal development
"I was sent to London for the first six weeks of my programme. At HSBC, everyone on the Global Analyst Induction Programme is sent there. I met people from all over the world. It was a great way of setting up a network and experiencing the Bank's diversity first-hand. There was also technical training, and I had courses that improved my knowledge of finance. We had cultural awareness training too and that's really helped me understand how to work in an international business environment."
What are your plans for the future?
"I want to keep learning. I'd also like to return all the attention and support people have given me by helping future graduates develop skills and knowledge. The culture here is unique and an important factor in the quality of our workforce. Passing it on to new joiners will not only help them, but the whole organisation. In the long term, I want to become a leader."
