We spoke with Clara S. – a Multi Asset Portfolio Manager in Frankfurt and former participant in our graduate programme. In the conversation, she gives us fascinating insights into her job and shares her experiences.

What do you love about your job?
I deal with current developments in the capital markets every day. I find the thematic diversity and analysis of a wide variety of influencing factors, ranging from economic and political conditions to company-specific developments and human behavioural patterns that shape market events, particularly exciting. This dynamic provides continuous new impetus, which we incorporate into our standard strategies, special mandates and mutual funds in a targeted manner. I greatly enjoy the ongoing analysis of these factors and their classification at portfolio level. This process is not only technically challenging, but also enables continuous development and opens up new perspectives.

What is it that you love about working for Berenberg?
What I particularly appreciate at Berenberg is the ability to take on responsibility at an early stage. You can contribute your own ideas and quickly gain the trust to actively participate in the design of portfolios, as well as take on and drive forward tasks independently.

How has your role at Berenberg evolved since you started here?
My role at Berenberg has evolved significantly since I joined the company. I started as a graduate trainee at Berenberg and worked in various departments in asset and wealth management as well as corporate banking. I then found my permanent position in portfolio management multi-asset, an area in which I was able to take on responsibility early on. After only a short time, I had the opportunity to contribute my own ideas and take on responsibility for special mandates.

What skills, characteristics or behaviours do you possess that have helped you thrive in your role?
Openness, proactivity and a keen thirst for knowledge have particularly helped me to grow into my role. Especially in a dynamic and constantly changing market environment, it is essential to remain curious, to critically question developments and to continuously acquire new knowledge. An open attitude and proactivity are also important on an interpersonal level because they build trust and promote cooperation.

What surprised you the most about Berenberg once you started working here?
What surprised me most when I started working at Berenberg was the high level of helpfulness and solution-oriented approach within the company. You receive a great deal of support across all departments, and everyone works together in a focused manner.

What has Berenberg done to invest in your professional or personal development?
Berenberg has actively supported my professional and personal development from the very beginning, particularly through its graduate programme. Great importance is attached to ensuring that trainees receive thorough training and find a suitable area of expertise. Regular rotations offer the opportunity to get to know different teams and colleagues, which not only broadens professional skills but also strengthens soft skills and the ability to deal with different personalities.