Listia is a Principal Project Manager at GIC’s Data Strategy Group (DSG). She spearheads the multi-year transformation master data management project and ensures the delivery of the desired business outcomes.
When she is not leading her team towards success, Listia is a devoted mother of two, spending quality time with her family.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
An opportunity at GIC was initially presented to me by a recruitment agency, but it was GIC’s mission and vision that truly struck a chord with me. The prospect of delving into investment strategies and financial instruments, coupled with exposure to emerging technologies, was exhilarating. The dynamic, fast-paced environment at GIC, along with the culture of the recruitment team, affirmed my decision to become a part of this organisation.
What does your typical workday look like?
My typical workday starts with a thorough review of our project plans and milestones. I look over our work and identify any potential obstacles that could slow our progress. A significant portion of my day is spent liaising with various stakeholders from the business, technology community, and product vendors. These interactions have not only helped me build strong professional relationships but also fostered a sense of camaraderie, making my journey at GIC both rewarding and enjoyable.
Recognising that a cohesive team is vital to the success of a project, I make it a point to regularly share meals with my team. These informal gatherings serve as an opportunity to connect on a personal level, thereby fortifying our team dynamics.
What do you like most about working here?
The best part of my job is the sense of accomplishment. Knowing that my role contributes to a smooth investment process, aiding GIC’s mission of preserving and growing Singapore’s reserves.
I appreciate that GIC’s work culture is built on mutual respect and a clear sense of purpose. I believe that a diverse workforce gives us the competitive edge necessary to operate successfully across markets and cultures, stay ahead of the curve, and remain innovative and adaptable.
An initiative that I am particularly excited about is GIC’s new global initiative “GIC INSPIRES – Women’s Mentorship Programme.” GIC is committed to nurturing and empowering women to make a real impact in finance, and this opportunity is open to all undergraduates. Through this programme, GIC aims to inspire students to pursue their passion for an investment career by providing guidance, development support, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
My learning and development journey at GIC has been both rewarding and dynamic. I began my career as a junior analyst in Public Markets Solutions, where I was tasked with implementing the Fixed Income/Foreign Exchange order and trade management system. This role not only sharpened my technical abilities but also broadened my business domain knowledge and interpersonal skills. The unparalleled learning experience has been my driving force for over a decade in this organisation. In my current role, I am gaining exposure to new business domains across public and private markets, and I am confident in delivering my projects using my skillsets.
Furthermore, GIC fosters continuous learning by offering a wide range of in-house and external courses. Staff are encouraged to pursue programs that align with their personal and professional goals.
What you should know before joining GIC
Always keep an open mind. GIC is a dynamic organisation that offers learning opportunities as we continue to adapt and review our processes in preparation for the future.