Devinder Benning

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Natixis Investment Managers

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I work full time for a French Multi-Boutique Asset management firm working within their International Institutional Marketing division. Before getting the job, I was looking for ways to improve my CV and interview techniques. Hence in my spare time, I decided to create my own website – showcasing my resume in a visual manner. This was a great talking point when it came to interviews.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I work full time for a French Multi-Boutique Asset management firm working within their International Institutional Marketing division. Before getting the job, I was looking for ways to improve my CV and interview techniques. Hence in my spare time, I decided to create my own website – showcasing my resume in a visual manner. This was a great talking point when it came to interviews. I feel my characteristics working for previous companies dialled down within the marketing & sales division of an investment bank. I enjoy the work of Asset Management especially learning about certain “hot topics” including; ESG, COP26, Sustainable finance and many more.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was the SSLC of the FAFM cohort 2020.

Were you part of the Exeter Student Ambassador Scheme at any point during your studies?

Yes.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

Enjoyed meeting students from all parts of the world as well as engaging with senior professors who have a vast amount of experience and knowledge within the industry. It was great to connect with several of the universities affiliates – especially with the alumni who work for big firms. My biggest highlight was becoming the SSLC of my cohort.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

Being brought up in London – I wanted to have a change of scenery. Assuming I will be working in London for the majority of my career, Exeter brings a certain uniqueness regarding both it’s campus and town. Being well renowned for their international students – you meet students and professors from all parts of the world.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Due to its reputation – especially within their business school. I knew Exeter had a great alumni which has lead to many big firms visiting the campus.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Being the SSLC requires you to have great organisation skills and effective time management. Implementing a lot of theses soft skills into my work as well as the technical skills, that being certain topics we got taught – allowed me to understand my line of work and have an opinion on certain asset classes, which the CFA qualification gave you a baseline understanding of.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Make sure to utilise the alumni network, given current circumstances. Make sure to take as much advice from senior colleagues as you can – and utilise the resources around you.

What are your plans for the future?

I do wish to become a manager within the next 2 years. I feel with my current experiences and characteristics – I would like to lead my own team within the Sales & Marketing field – showcasing my leadership qualities.