Isabella is an Assistant Vice President in the Finance Department, where she supports the optimal management of corporate resources and financial controllership while ensuring compliance with regulations and requirements. Being part of the Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis team provides her with a platform to make recommendations to improve frameworks and policies, driving prudence, efficiency and effectiveness in the allocation of resources.
Outside of work, Isabella is a mother to two young kids, who keep her very occupied in the evenings. On weekends, she enjoys long morning runs, spends time serving at her church, and occasionally plays a game of tennis!
Why did you decide to join GIC?
It was because of a pivotal conversation I had with the interviewer who shared insights about the impact of the work they do. I found myself relating to his perspectives, and he challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. I felt it would be exciting to work in an organisation that is forward-looking and operating at a high level.
What does your typical workday look like?
I believe in starting each day afresh. When time permits, I like to begin my morning with a run. My workday varies throughout the year; during peak budget periods, I focus on adopting an enterprise lens to develop management insights that support resource allocation decisions. Conversely, during quarter and year-end periods, the emphasis shifts more toward reporting-related tasks.
Regardless of the time of the year, I always take the opportunity to recharge during the lunch hour whether over a meal with my fellow colleagues or a workout at the gym!
What do you like most about working here?
What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to collaborate not only within the Finance Department but also with various teams across GIC. It has helped me to gain diverse insights and engage in stimulating intellectual discussions.
Ultimately, it’s always the people who make the difference! I appreciate the friendly, open and respectful culture within my team.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
GIC offers ample resources for growth, including formal training programs. However, I believe that we learn best when we take ownership of our own learning and development.
I’ve had the privilege of learning from senior management in the Finance Department who generously share their deep knowledge of the organisation, helping me appreciate the nuances of my work. I’m also grateful for the opportunities my boss has given to me, encouraging me to share my views and step out of my comfort zone.
What you should know before joining GIC
The work culture at GIC embraces excellence and prioritises results. So be prepared to fuel up on resilience, critical thinking and open-mindedness to tackle the challenges you will encounter as you grow in the process.
On a more practical note, it is essential to understand what GIC does before joining, and reading the GIC Annual Report is one of the best ways to start!