
Changing financial stability in the banking sector
- Job title
- Credit Risk Assistant Manager
- Company
- KPMG UK
- Programme
- MSc Banking and Risk
- Graduation year
- 2017
The course
Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School (UEBS)?
I chose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School because of its global reputation for academic excellence. The international environment and networking opportunities gave me valuable global insights and industry connections.
In addition, studying in a dynamic city like Edinburgh with its rich culture and active business community, added a lot to both my personal and professional development.
What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?
The MSc in Banking and Risk (now Banking Innovation and Risk Analytics) at the University of Edinburgh was particularly appealing due to its unique blend of traditional banking knowledge and modern risk analytics, not commonly found in UK programmes. The variety of courses available also enabled me to tailor my learning to focus on my career interests.
Your career
Can you tell us about your career before and after graduating?
I came to my MSc straight from my undergraduate degree with little work experience. During my MSc studies, I had the opportunity to complete a client sourced dissertation with NatWest. This was an invaluable learning experience and significantly increased my ability to secure a role in finance.
While working on my dissertation, I accepted a role as a Credit Risk Analyst with Tesco Bank. Following that, I joined NatWest as a Senior Risk Modelling Analyst, and later moved to KPMG as a Credit Risk Assistant Manager. Each of these roles have allowed me to deepen my expertise in risk management and analytics.
The specialist knowledge I gained allowed to me to take on more senior positions.Andriani Chrysanthou MSc
How did your degree prepare you for your career?
The degree provided me with extensive knowledge, across a number of areas, which was crucial in preparing me for a risk management career in the banking industry. It introduced me to credit risk which I found particularly appealing, and it directly aligned with my career goals. The ability to tailor the programme with elective courses allowed me to focus on specific areas that matched my aspirations.
In addition, the connections I was able to make with industry practitioners through guest lectures and professional events, facilitated by the Business School, ensured that my learning was grounded in real-world banking challenges. This combination of academic knowledge and practical insight helped to shape my career path.
Masters of Change
What notable changes has your degree enabled you to make in your professional or personal life?
My degree has played a crucial role in advancing my career. It provided me with the specialised knowledge in credit risk and analytics that allowed me to move into more senior positions.
Personally, this progress has boosted my confidence and sense of achievement, making me more ambitious in pursuing future career goals.
What are the changes you have been able to make in your chosen field, of which you are most proud?
One of the changes I am most proud of is my contribution to enhancing risk management practices. I have been able to play a key role in helping to develop more robust credit risk frameworks, which have contributed to strengthening the overall financial stability of the institutions I have worked in.
What key things that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?
Working on my dissertation taught me how to conduct in-depth research and analyse data effectively.
In addition, the courses on the Basel Accords, SAS programming, and credit risk management gave me practical knowledge that I apply regularly in my role today.
Course highlights and advice
What are your best memories on the programme?
At the start of the programme, the class had a welcome party including a boat trip in South Queensferry. It was a fantastic way to explore a scenic part of Edinburgh and connect with my fellow students and Business School staff in a relaxed setting.
Another highlight was our visit to London, where we visited several financial institutions. This experience enabled me to meet industry professionals and provided a great opportunity for getting to know my peers.
What one piece of advice would you give to current students and recent graduates?
My advice is to fully embrace the opportunities available to you. Network actively, seek out ways to expand your knowledge, and explore areas that genuinely interest you. Attend events, engage with industry professionals, and take advantage of the client sourced dissertation opportunities if you can. These experiences can significantly enrich your learning and open doors to future opportunities.
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