Wematch.live
Sophie Kleshchuk
20 August 2024
In the latest of the Emerging Talent series, Sophie Kleshchuk, part of the US Client Coverage team at Wematch.live, speaks with Daniel Tison about technological transformations and the importance of hands-on learning
Image: Sophie Kleshchuk
Can you tell me about your journey into the securities finance industry?
I inherited a keen appreciation for the dynamic intersection of finance and technology from colleagues and mentors I started my career with, and it only got stronger while working with several up-and-coming fintech projects. The securities finance industry, with its blend of financial instruments, regulatory landscapes, and technological advances seemed like a natural choice.
What excites me most is being part of an industry where virtually every decision and innovation directly impacts financial markets and the broader economy. It is incredibly fulfilling to contribute to products and strategies that have tangible, real-world implications. Personally, securities finance presents an opportunity to leverage my technology background and passion for impactful work in a field that is both intellectually stimulating and socially relevant.
As a young professional, what aspects of your role or the industry do you find most exciting?
As someone with a background in technology, I find it incredibly exciting to witness how modern approaches to user experience can transform traditional workflows within the securities finance industry. It is fascinating to see how innovations in user interface design and technology can streamline complex processes, making them significantly more efficient. This not only simplifies and automates numerous manual tasks but also enhances risk management capabilities, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders involved.
Being part of this transformation is particularly fulfilling, because it aligns with the core purpose of improving efficiency and making everyone’s professional lives easier — a goal that resonates deeply with me. Moreover, I am inspired by the industry’s increasing attraction to young professionals who are enthusiastic about adopting and driving innovation forward. It is invigorating to collaborate with like-minded individuals who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. This influx of talent not only fosters a culture of continuous improvement but also ensures that the industry remains at the forefront of technological advancement.
Many companies offer various training and development opportunities for their employees. How has your company supported your growth?
One of the best parts of the training here at Wematch is the emphasis on hands-on learning through on-the-job training. I have had the opportunity to dive into challenging projects right from the start, which has allowed me to learn by doing and gaining practical insights into the industry’s complexities.
This approach is most efficient, as it makes you learn faster and encourages you to explore various processes and solutions in real-time scenarios, which is even more insightful, as we work closely with our teams in London and Paris, and can automatically learn about regulatory differences and product approaches typical for different regions.
But what really deserves special recognition is the mentorship I have been fortunate to receive from colleagues who generously share their knowledge and have been nothing but an incredible support system. The environment and the team dynamic make a huge difference, and I have been extremely lucky.
What misconceptions about working in the financial industry have you encountered, and how do you address these challenges?
The rise of social media has contributed to promoting an exaggerated and disproportionate image of the financial industry — even though this trend tracks across various industries and professions. It is important to remember and recognise that a fair share of that content is curated with an explicit goal of generating revenue for creators, and often does not accurately reflect the day-to-day reality. My best advice is to keep your information clear and be mindful about the content you consume — simple as that.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the next five years in terms of your career goals and aspirations?
In the current dynamic environment, five years can feel both long and short, but I envision myself advancing further along the path where I can navigate client relationships and contribute to evolving products together with my team. I am excited to deepen my knowledge in specific niches but also have a broader view across verticals — which seems to fit right in with the approach at Wematch.
What advice do you have for other young professionals aspiring to pursue a career in
your industry?
A lot of young professionals get overwhelmed with everyone’s advice, tips and tricks that often come from more seasoned and experienced colleagues, and while those can be very helpful further down the path, I believe that if you are just entering the industry — take no shortcuts!
Sophie Kleshchuk bio
Sophie Kleshchuk is a business development expert, currently serving in US Client Coverage at Wematch.live. With a master's degree in international relations from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kleshchuk brings a global perspective to her work in fintech and securities lending.
Kleshchuk’s diverse background includes leadership roles in MedTech and software development, which has equipped her with a unique blend of technical knowledge and client relations skills. At Wematch.live, Kleshchuk uses her expertise to help clients navigate the complex world of securities finance, driving growth and fostering strong partnerships in the American market.
Passionate about innovation and client success, Kleshchuk is dedicated to helping financial institutions streamline their workflows and achieve their goals through cutting-edge technology.
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