ELLADA GRIGORIADOU: My name is Ellada Grigoriadou. I’m an analyst in onboarding implementation team. We work closely with various internal and external stakeholders to ensure that all the setups are in place and everything is ready for the client, whether it’s a launch portfolio, or it’s a change event.
I was always interested in finance. And during my second year, I was applying for internships. And I was researching lots of banks, asset management firms in London.
And BlackRock attracted my attention. I think one of the things that attracted was not only being a top brand with comprehensive trainings and amazing opportunities, but also its culture. I was looking for a firm that will sort of be based on one team attitude. And I think that’s very important, and that’s sort of what differentiates firms at the moment.
We’re a family. We’re truly a family. And being in my team, they created a great atmosphere. It’s very welcoming. We’re very diverse in both our origins and the way we think.
One thing that definitely surprised me was the level of responsibility that they entrusted us with from the day one. And I think that definitely makes you feel empowered and encouraged as well because its enormous opportunities to really learn about the firm from the first day and at the same time get connected with everyone.
When I joined graduate scheme, we were given an opportunity to go for two weeks to New York and actually meet the founders. And I think it was an unbelievable experience. It’s amazing to listen to their experience and sort of what they think is the future of the company. For me, it makes me more take a personal approach in what I do, rather than just doing my job well. It’s actually treating these as you’re a part of a huge family.
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