Anne-Marie is an Associate at Product Management and Network where she drives the New Product Approval (NPA) process, working closely with GIC’s investment teams, counterparties and network of custodian banks on defining the scope of new products that require approvals. Her team also supports continuous assessments to identify and assess the ability of custodian banks to support GIC’s custody needs.
An avid ultimate frisbee player, Anne-Marie has been with GIC for over a year.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
I was initially hired as part of the GIC Internship Programme (GIP), but was later converted and accepted into the GIC Professionals Programme (GPP). As an accounting undergrad, GIC was not at the forefront of my mind at the time, but I wanted to branch out and try a non-accounting role, so I applied for the internship – which I thoroughly enjoyed. With our positive culture, it was an easy decision to join GIC as a GPP.
What does your typical workday look like?
My days usually start at 8am with coffee and breakfast. After which, I typically clear emails before speaking to investment teams and the NPA work group to follow up on ongoing product requests and prepare for new product requests.
I usually keep myself updated with market news or regulatory updates to understand how it may have an impact on GIC. After work, I either go for frisbee training or have dinner with family and friends.
What do you like most about working here?
People generally perceive a financial institution as cutthroat or with colleagues who are unwilling to help one another. In GIC, it’s the opposite; my coworkers are very friendly and approachable, and they’re always eager to lend a helping hand to help others learn and grow. What I like best about GIC is the people and team culture. With GIC being a relatively flat organisation, I feel empowered to express my views and propose new ideas. Even as an Associate, I am invited to important meetings, which broadens my experiences and learning.
GIC also places a high value on diversity and encourages inclusion. GIC recently organised a panel session with people with disabilities in collaboration with The Purple Parade, allowing us to learn about their experiences and challenges as disabled people. Experiences like this expose me to various life perspectives and empower me to remain open and accept diversity as a normality.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
I’ve been exposed to different departments and teams within GIC through rotations as part of GPP, allowing me to pick up new skills. People management skills are one of the most important and transferable skills I’ve acquired. I’ve had to work with a variety of people (of varying ranks) in all my roles, which has required me to constantly adapt to different audiences. Furthermore, GIC promotes mentorship, and I have mentors who continue to share their experiences and provide me with career guidance, both during GPP and now in ISPM.
What you should know before joining GIC
Be brave; don’t be afraid to express your ideas or opinions. Working with a new group of people can be intimidating at times, especially when you don’t know what to expect or are afraid of stepping on people’s toes. Because GIC values collaboration, critical thinking, and idea generation, it is important that all ideas and opinions are freely expressed. There is no such thing as a silly idea.