Case studies: Operations analyst: Johnny Robinson

After graduating from the University of Strathclyde with a BA in Finance in 2010, Johnny joined the Operations Analyst Programme at Morgan Stanley and now works as an analyst in Fixed Income Settlements.

There’s no doubt that my degree in finance aided my professional development and added to my understanding of the concepts and processes dealt with in this area of the business. However, I know that applications are welcomed from all students, regardless of degree discipline.

I was initially attracted to Morgan Stanley because it is widely recognised as one of the top investment banks in the world. The firm’s global presence and the opportunity to travel were also major draws. In addition, the firm provides a comprehensive introductory training programme on financial markets, products and services, equally beneficial for those who have not had any previous exposure to the financial sector.

Since I joined the Morgan Stanley Operations Analyst Programme in July 2010 (see Morgan Stanley Careers (Glasgow) for more information), I’ve been working in the fixed income settlements team. I’ve had a variety of roles, and I’m now focusing on domestic settlements, monitoring and supporting our trading activities in the Italian debt market. The role involves helping to manage the firm’s bond inventory and moving bonds between the different markets to ensure that our counterparty trading obligations are fully met and that clients receive a seamless, high-quality service.

Because the daily tasks involved in the role are, to a large extent, dictated by settlement cycles and market cut-off times, my office day usually follows a set pattern. My typical working day begins by looking at the trades that are due to settle on that day and then working to ensure we are able to deliver the bonds we have promised to sell to counterparties. The market closes at 3pm so up until this point it’s all about looking to reduce the number of trades in my 'outstanding' queue. After 3pm, it’s about cleaning up and recording, and if necessary, reporting on any trades that didn’t settle on time and the reason why. I can also begin to plan for the next day’s activity and address any apparent issues that can be sorted prior to settlement day.

The part of my role that took most getting used to is the multitasking and keeping on top of the many different individual tasks within the role. Hitting tight deadlines can be pressurised at times, particularly when trade volumes are very high. And I find it challenging to fully appreciate some of the processes in settlements, as some are pretty complex and involved.

On the other hand, there is a great deal of interaction within the team and I really enjoy that aspect to the role. I also enjoy the level of problem-solving that comes with my job, and the level of satisfaction and achievement when issues are resolved and trades settled. On a day-to-day basis within the Italian debt market, I can see the results of my work and the impact I have on firm activities. The best experience I’ve had to date was being out in India for four weeks, facilitating the transition of roles to our Chennai office.

The office culture is very important to me. It’s professional and friendly, with questions being welcomed and encouraged. Employees are expected to take ownership of their own development and actively seek out additional responsibilities in the course of their work or outside it.

If I had to give advice to anyone considering working within the operational side of investment banking, I’d say to do plenty of research prior to starting so you have a real understanding of what it is the role involves and whether you would be suited to the work.