News & Insights

Stefano Dusnasco, Associate at Bain Capital

“I would say my advice for current candidates is as follows:

Do your research.  The London market is unique and quite different from the rest of Europe.  Research doesn’t mean looking at the website – what you read online is only partly useful.  It is important to talk to people and ask questions.

Plan ahead – always think one step ahead, ask yourself what is next, how do I get there, what is the right path?  Remember that it is not necessarily the quickest way, but the most thoughtful way will get you where you want to be.

Be patient – working out your career often takes time.

Learn from failures.  Use a methodical approach to observe and recognise failures – both your own and others you see around you.  Sometimes people treat failure as something to avoid, but they can be an excellent learning opportunity. 

Finally, I always keep in mind advice from my grandfather: “If you are the smartest in the room then you are probably in the wrong room.”  I have always kept this in mind and it has encouraged me to work in settings that challenge, inspire and motivate me.”

Rebecca O'Dwyer, Associate Director, Direct Lending at M&G

“I would say find the right employer and team.  Never underestimate the importance of your line-manager, and finding a good mentor and sponsor is one of the most important things you can do in your career.

Have a plan.  Don't be afraid to be bold and put yourself forward.  Tell people what you want to achieve and work towards it.  Hold yourself and others accountable for that progression.”

Laura Berguig, Associate Director, Debt Management at Permira:

“Finding the right employer and team is the most important piece of advice – whether you’re male or female.  Also, don’t see being a woman as a disadvantage – don't think you have to emulate what are typically deemed as male traits to succeed. Sometimes seeming like the friendly face can be an advantage in what can be perceived a competitive industry.

Finally, don’t be afraid to champion yourself.  There seems to be a particularly fine line for women between seen as confident and aggressive.”

Jamie Beaumont, Managing Partner at Lego Ventures:

"An important lesson I've learnt is to always ask myself more questions about elements outside of the role itself; do I feel like this organisation needs me? Can I contribute? How do I want to contribute? Do I like the culture? Will I gain something from it?  It’s that line of questioning that has governed my decision-making process.  With every job you find out what makes you happy – what size, what age of company, what type of CEO do I work with the best, what products and services do I have a passion for and what aspects of the role are really important to me and what can I take or leave.  You start to build up that picture of yourself over time to get to that next level of detail"