“Believe in yourself. If you haven’t got what it takes… go and find it!”

Yamina Bouiassi sat down with me to talk about all things HER in the world of banking!

“Believe in yourself. If you haven’t got what it takes… go and find it!” - YB, 2019.

I sat down with Yamina Bouaissi to discuss her journey into financial services and what that’s been like! What an honour to hear about her European adventures and what it’s been like working in a field that is seemingly male dominated and how she made her mark!

How did you get into tech/banking and what has been your career progression so far?

Bit of a story! I started off my career working in HR, when a senior trader approached me said with my quick wit (& saving him money in their tax!) that I’d do well in Equity sales – and offered me a job! I then started my career as an Equity Sales Trader; so I collected international stock news across the stock exchange, and traded markets in Europe, North Africa & Asia. I worked with huge client banks and institutional clients.

Later on in my career, I was invited to join another team in Equity finance, and then opened my own trading and settlements office in Switzerland! When I returned to the UK, I entered Business Analysis in Financial Services. I’ve worked with Lloyds Banking Group, HSBC and TSB. I’ve worked multiple projects within FCA regulated activity including Financial crime, money laundering and Fraud!

What has been your most career defining moment?

Switzerland was my greatest achievement – I had a blank canvas and I created something out of nothing! The success of that was very personal. I achieved setting up a successful trading settlements operations, working with the UK and French partners and clients. I built trust and knowledge in a brand new market.

What advice would you give to young women who haven’t considered tech as a career choice?

You have to make your mark and you have to trust yourself – there is nothing you can’t do! Wherever you find walls, find the tools to climb them. Make your make your mark and move up the ladder!

Who are your female role models within the tech space? 

I meet female role models everyday! There are heroes everywhere. Mums with children, colleagues I’ve worked with, these women are everywhere, so look out for them!

Where is your go to website or blog for topical tech news/info?

Financial Times! It was the newspaper that taught me the language to use in my industry, as a French national, who also speaks Italian, it was important to pick up the British Lingo! I also love following European news.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

I didn’t have the big dreams I have now. My parents taught me how to study, but not how to dream. My dreams became my truth, I moved to the UK, got a job and then moved into Financial Services and I’ve done everything I’ve wanted to do! Make it happen!

Part of my "Women In..." Series focussing on Women who work in male-dominated sectors, celebrating their progress, their successes and looking at what advice they'd give to anyone kick starting their career search!