SFE YP Learn About Me #1 | Amy Paterson

The SFE Young Professionals’ new Learn about Me series aims to highlight the different routes, variety of roles, and experiences of young professionals in the financial services industry. First up we hear from our SFE YP Chair, Amy Paterson.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I watched legally blonde in my early teens and am ashamed to admit that from that point on I was dead set on being a lawyer. I did all the right things, the work experience, exam results and walked away from my 5th year at high school with unconditional offers to Uni. Within the first week I knew it wasn’t for me. There was too much “grey area” and never a right or wrong answer – I missed the logic and problem solving of Math. The morale in that story for me is that it is OK to change your mind, if you feel like something isn’t for you, there will be something that is… so don’t settle

What is your current role?

I am a Senior Credit Risk Manager in Barclays UK – in short it is basically my job to worry about everything all day. Up until recently my responsibilities were more aligned to Project Management as I managed the second line risk function through the Acquisition of Kensington Mortgage Company. Now the entity is part of Barclays Group, I am responsible for managing the portfolio and supporting the forward looking strategy for growth.

Describe your career journey so far?

I would describe myself as an experienced and passionate Risk Professional who has worked in financial services for over 10 years, with experience in a number of second line Risk and Governance roles across Retail, Corporate and Wealth centric businesses. It wasn’t plain sailing to get there – the journey has been rocky to say the least with a number of rejections and setbacks that I have had to learn from along the way. Perseverance and resilience have been key.

·What does success in your career mean to you?

I have learned that I am super passionate about supporting the development of Young Professionals in my community and promoting equal opportunities for those from difficult socioeconomic backgrounds. I was recently awarded the Role Model of the Year award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion by Barclays Scotland for that work and I think that is probably my proudest achievement to date. That being said, what really motivates me is seeing the impact that my work in this space has on others. Success to me is seeing young professionals flourish through the opportunities I am able to help provide and having the opportunity to leave inclusive leadership as my legacy. Professionally, I’d go with autonomy and respect.

What is a common misconception about the industry?

That it is cut throat, dog eat dog… every man for themselves. Through the young professionals network I have had the chance to meet such a supportive group of people across all grades and all areas of the industry, all of whom are genuinely trying to work so collaboratively to connect the ecosystem and champion change collectively.

What more do you think the industry could do to support young professionals?

Give them a seat at the table. We have an army of keen and enthusiastic young people hungry for the opportunity to affect change in our industry. Our members are the leaders of tomorrow and we need to do more to bring them together with the leaders of today to influence decisions that will impact generations to come.

·What is your favourite part of being involved with SFE YP?

The opportunity to pay it forward. When I joined the industry over 10 years ago there were no networks like this unless you were on a graduate scheme. I love accessing our diverse membership population to help young professionals network and develop effective skills for career progression, supporting them in achieving their goals.

What is one thing you are passionate about?

Equal opportunities for those entering financial services, regardless of background or stage of life. There are so many routes into the industry now and my hope is to ensure that each is recognised for the unique attributes that those candidates bring to the pipeline of talent in Scotland. Diversity is key.

What do you know now that you wish someone had told you at the start of your career?

It’s OK to say no and be selfish with your time. As a young professional you can be overwhelmed with development opportunities and it can feel like you have to say yes to everything to get noticed. My advice would be to focus on the opportunities you are truly passionate about and that will benefit you in a tangible way. That way you have the time, energy and enthusiasm to give it 100%

Describe yourself in 3 words

Tenacious, inquisitive and direct.

Describe how your typical Sunday looks?

My husband is a huge support system for me professionally and we both lead busy working lives through the week, so we usually try and keep some time for us at the weekend. We both love our food and so can likely be found having enjoyed a nice walk to sample the roast dinners of Edinburgh with a good bottle of wine. An early night binge watching a box set is a good reset before the pandemonium that Monday brings – we are currently watching the Night Agent on Netflix… highly recommended, but also love a sporting documentary.