Life as a Global Partnerships Manager

Alcino Jorge from Portugal talks about Deriv's incredible opportunities and international travels, which have refined his global business insights. He also talks about work-life balance and the enriching work culture.

Hi Alcino. Can you describe your role as a Global Partnerships Manager in Deriv?

Hello, yes, sure. As a Global Partnerships Manager, I head a team that is the voice of Deriv to business partners from across the globe. We visit our developing and thriving markets where our partners operate to ensure our relationship is cemented on transparency and trust. We do that by listening to their challenges and needs, analysing our current offerings to check whether we can address them, and sharing information about our products.

I ensure that the team has the tools and resources it needs to succeed in that effort.?

You mentioned visiting markets for business. Does this mean your role involves frequent travelling??

Yes, travelling for work is an integral part of my job. Deriv is spreading its wings in newer markets while strengthening its position in the existing ones. Our team organises market partnership programmes to build and maintain relationships with new and existing partners.

I have travelled to Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, and South Africa for partnership programmes. Inter-office travel is also popular at Deriv. I have visited Paraguay, Malaysia, Cyprus, Malta, and the UAE to meet team members and work in a culturally new environment.?

What is the most interesting aspect of your role?

It isn't easy to pick just one. It will have to be a mix of — working with international colleagues, dealing with international business partners, travelling, and getting direct insight into other professions and fields daily by collaborating with other teams and departments.

Which destination has been your favourite so far?

Argentina would be my personal favourite. Its capital city, Buenos Aires, has unmatched vibrancy. It exceeded all my expectations.

Argentina is an untapped market with tremendous potential for us. It is exciting to visit a country like this so early on.

Has the pandemic affected business practices?

The pandemic did shake things up a bit. Due to the lockdown, we could not visit our business partners in person. However, we maintained our connection through WhatsApp calls and messages and also Zoom calls to ensure that we helped them in case they needed it.?

There were a few changes within Deriv as well, although nothing drastic. Virtual meetings and catch-ups became the norm. Earlier, we used to rely on the virtual mode of meetings with team members sitting across the globe. During the lockdown, we used it for discussions at the same office as well.?

Does meeting team members in person add value to your relationship with them?

I try to visit my team members at least once per quarter. Meeting in person always has a positive impact on the team’s performance. When we meet, we don't only discuss work but also other more personal aspects of life. I think creating a bond beyond work with a growing team is important. I try to create a healthy work environment for team members where they can work together and help each other out.?

How do you maintain positivity and a sense of camaraderie in your team?

I think I have been blessed with a great team since day one. The oldest members have come a long way together. We have had camaraderie since the very beginning. Just like the best wine producers in the world know how to blend the old vintage with the new, I think the trick has been in maintaining the positive values of the oldest team members, all the while embracing the forward-thinking of the new joiners.

What has been your biggest learning at Deriv?

The learning has been endless. I suppose the biggest lesson (which might sound a bit cliché) has been that the sky is the limit and that anything is possible. Not only have I achieved things I never thought possible, but I've also watched the company grow from 89 employees to over 1,000.

How do you maintain a work-life balance when working remotely?

Work-life balance can only be achieved through discipline and by prioritising work and life equally. I must confess that I am still evolving and not near perfection.