Louisa Finch

HEAD OF CLIENT ACQUISITION

Standard Chartered Jersey

What does a typical working day involve for you?

One of the things that I enjoy most about my role is that every day is different. Common activities include meeting with the team to deliver on our client proposition, liaising with colleagues in different jurisdictions, such as Asia, Africa and the Middle East, to review and finalise new deals, whilst always working to ensure excellent client service. The nature of the role is incredibly varied and involves both internal and external stakeholder management, including the occasional trips to visit colleagues in other locations to explain how Jersey can support our clients globally.

How did you get your job?

Being in the right place at the right time. I never envisaged working in finance, but after realising my chosen career, which I had studied for wasn’t for me, I met my boss through a mutual acquaintance and took a chance on a new role. Since I joined as a Business Planning and Performance Manager. I’ve subsequently moved through the business to my current job – Head of Client Acquisition.

What motivates you in this role?

I am driven to find solutions and make an impact, and I get to do both in my role. I always strive to find new and improved solutions for our clients, in addition to motivating the team to succeed by exploring new markets and opportunities. Being part of a truly global and successful bank that strives to deliver for clients internationally is very fulfilling.

Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role?

International finance is consistently changing and innovating, two key areas are ESG – Environmental Social and Governance – and digital technology. I have an active interest in both and am constantly looking to improve my skills and understanding of the evolving world we live in. I’m so lucky to have the support of our leadership in continuing to develop myself and my team.

What are the three most important skills required for your role?

Strategic mindset – developing and articulating the vision of our business to the team.

Authentic leadership – having the trust of my team and supporting them to achieve success.

Communication skills – communicating clearly to ensure we can execute accurately and at speed.

What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?

There are endless opportunities within finance, so don’t dismiss finance as being boring as it can be so much more! I have had the opportunity to meet interesting people through my career and have travelled to Africa, the Middle East and Asia. There is a myriad of roles and there will be something that interests everyone – try and get an internship and give it a go to find out more.

Tell us a fun fact

I lived and worked for a period of time in the Caribbean, where I enjoyed the amazing work life balance of swimming in the sea and eating my lunch next to a pool!