Robert Thompson

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it?
I always wanted to work in a financial markets-oriented role.
 
What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most?
I enjoyed how applicable the course was to my professional career and the additional opportunities available e.g. CFA scholarship, Bank of England (BOE) dissertation programme.
 
What were your career aspirations when you arrived? Do you think the experience and skills you gained here will help/helped you in your future career plans? In what way?
My career aspiration was I want to get a front-office role in an investment bank. My Masters degree set me apart from other candidates, particularly my participation in the Bank of England (BOE) dissertation programme.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?
I have got a job at the world’s largest independent financial risk management advisor, specialising in FX and interest rate hedging.
 
What are your ambitions for the future?
I would like to be an MD at a bank or derivatives advisor
 
Do you think your experience and skills gained here will help you in your future career plans? In what way?
Yes, the experience and skills I gained during my Masters have prepared me for my current role, and transferable skills will also prepare me for other roles in the future.
 
What was your impression/experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the student union, the City of Leeds and the region itself? What would you recommend to future students?
The facilities that LUBS provide were good, and I would recommend that future students make the most use of them to get prepared for career development.

What would you say is your defining memory of studying here?
The Bank of England (BOE) dissertation programme.