 Management Associates |
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Management Associates |
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We play a critical role as Asia's leading and trusted market infrastructure, operating equity, fixed income and derivatives markets to the highest regulatory standards. As Asia's most international, multi-asset exchange, SGX provides listing, trading, clearing, settlement, depository and data services, with about 40% of listed companies and 75% of listed bonds originating outside of Singapore.
We recognise that every individual is armed with different strengths and sensibilities. So, going beyond the traditional approach of having one programme that is applied to all, our MAs will be able to:
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We play a critical role as Asia's leading and trusted market infrastructure, operating equity, fixed income and derivatives markets to the highest regulatory standards. As Asia's most international, multi-asset exchange, SGX provides listing, trading, clearing, settlement, depository and data services, with about 40% of listed companies and 75% of listed bonds originating outside of Singapore.
We recognise that every individual is armed with different strengths and sensibilities. So, going beyond the traditional approach of having one programme that is applied to all, our MAs will be able to:
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Lester has made his mark as a trail blazer, being the pioneer batch of Management Associates (MA) in SGX. He saw an opportunity, took hold of it and has not looked back.
Although he received offers from various organisations, nothing really caught his eye. But when one of his professors spoke to him about SGX's newly designed MA programme, something clicked. "My professor shared that one thing was for sure. When the top management designed this programme, they were serious about grooming and cultivating young talent to be the next management group in SGX." Lester started his stint as a Management Associate in the Office of the CEO. His interaction with the CEO showed him how leaders draw relationships with seemingly unconnected ideas. It was not just about accomplishing a target and doing well, but to realise what other areas can be developed alongside it, such that the end result would be further enhanced. |
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"The MA programme constantly expects one to possess mental agility to think both vertically and laterally, from different aspects, down to every single detail." When he moved into the Product Development Unit, Lester worked closely with the Head of Products and Services. There, he gained an operational perspective of what was happening in the marketplace. In the Business Analysis unit, Lester learnt more of the systems behind the derivatives products, which gave him the know-how to launch a product successfully. Lester's last rotation in Operations (Market Control) has provided him a comprehensive understanding of the entire product launch. Through this, he knew precisely how much time it would take to complete each task, helping him to manage projects with greater efficiency and control. As an integrated Exchange, the running of any project will inevitably impact or involve different departments. The advantage of the MA programme, he quipped, was being able to gain a bird's eye view of the different aspects of the revenue generating Business Units. "The biggest benefit about the programme is that management takes a personal interest in your development. SGX values talent and development and gives you challenging work opportunities that can make a difference in the organisation. You are given the opportunity to shine and you must prove yourself. So the question is, are you a risk taker?" Upon completing the MA programme, Lester returned to the Product Development Unit to develop and nurture new products. He introduced new products in the SGX securities and derivatives market, across asset classes such as equities and fixed income, and over a variety of instruments such as futures, options, exchange traded funds and exchange traded notes. In addition, the team was constantly involved in projects that reviewed and enhanced SGX's market structure so as to better address the needs of customers. "The MA programme is designed to enhance an individual's strengths by training up his or her ability to think and react quickly in different scenarios and being able to anticipate and mediate problems. This greatly increases the efficiency of your work." After five years in SGX, Lester has returned to the CEO's office once again, this time as a senior staff assistant to the CEO. His efforts and achievements have certainly been recognised. Although he knows that he has high expectations to meet, Lester is ever ready to take challenges with the fighting spirit he inspires. |
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Key to Success
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When asked to share some words of wisdom, Lester encourages potential MAs to grab opportunities and challenges as they come.
"Don't be afraid of failure. Crave for success." Keep reading up, asking questions and be adaptable. Knowing yourself, your risk appetite and what environment suits you, would go a long way in your development. |
 |
 |
When the choice narrowed between SGX and another organisation's Management Associate (MA) programme, the choice of SGX was clear.
The rationale for his decision was to take the road less travelled. He was also drawn by the fact that SGX provided him with the opportunity to work directly with the CEO. To a fresh graduate, the exposure was invaluable and proved to be the main differentiating factor for him. Since joining SGX's MA programme in July 2009, Derek has rotated from Commodities to Risk Management (Derivatives), Operations (Clearing & Settlement), and finally, the CEO's office. "As a fresh graduate, not many would choose the path of an Exchange or know what it is all about. In the Exchange, we participate in all segments of the market. From up stream to down stream segments - regulators to financial institutions to retail customers. Getting to work with people from different segments of the industry has given me a good grasp of the mechanics of the financial world and what is crucial for its survival." |
|
The rotations have given him a macro view of the various units, how they support each other, and has increased his efficiency in completing tasks. Also, working under various unit superiors and the CEO has conditioned him to understand diverse trains of thought in decision-making and to look at things holistically. More importantly, he sees how his efforts fit into the bigger picture and how it contributes towards SGX's goals. The SGX MAs participate actively in the design of their two-year programme in consultation with their mentors, supervisors and HR. The CEO, having worked closely with the MA towards the end of the programme, would also advise on the most suitable department for that individual. This is where they will take up a permanent position based on his/her interests, strengths and abilities. "The MAs are given the flexibility to indicate their preferred department for the permanent position, taking into account the market forces of demand and supply. Such a degree of flexibility and customisation in a graduate programme certainly is rare!" When asked to describe a highlight in his stint, Derek humbly shared that his career has only just begun. However, what gives him a sense of satisfaction is being able to share what he has learnt across units. This sharing helps colleagues gain a better understanding of the Exchange as a whole; helping them appreciate what they do and how they fit into the grand scheme of things. |
|
|
Key to Success
|
|
Derek shares that it is important to be logical, quick-witted, adaptable to new environments. Be open to new ideas and changes and also maintain a spirit of humility.
In addition, knowing your business well and being able to look at things holistically would certainly aid in making better decisions. To be a good leader, one must know how to build relationships with his team, peers and bosses. To Derek, the crux is to remain passionate about what you do and always do whatever it takes to give your best. |
 |
 |
After going through a rigorous screening process comprising of ability tests, a boardroom simulation, and various interview sessions, Keri stood out amongst the rest, according to one manager. She was elated when she received the offer.
"What attracted me to SGX was the clarity in its mission, and I clearly understood what the organisation strived to achieve." The SGX Management Associate (MA) programme offers a different model of experience, with great flexibility and customisation. For instance, the managers and HR strategically assess each MA's area of expertise and determine which units the individual is best suited for. This hones and develops the MA's maximum potential in their area of specialisation. Keri's rotation through various departments – Market Development / Product Management, Office of the CEO, Operations, Issuer Regulation – has given her valuable opportunities to network and build relationships. Keri chose to return to Derivatives for her permanent posting as she enjoys interacting with people from diverse backgrounds across the industry. She also has a strong passion to build business cases, and finds it very fulfilling to be part of the growth in businesses and revenues. |
|
"Over time, you would understand the mechanics of developing new business and the challenges that may be encountered. Seeing a project take-off is immensely rewarding." As part of the programme, Keri was attached to the CEO's office, and gained exposure to the top management's mindset and working styles. She learnt how to see the “big picture” and understood how the management managed issues. Her familiarity with the various departments has certainly trained her to be more acute in identifying loopholes and anticipating problems. The ability to escalate issues to unit heads from a neutral perspective is invaluable, Keri shared. |
|
|
Key to Success
|
|
Keri advises new MAs to keep an open mind and learn as much as possible while rotating through the various units. Although Derivatives is where she feels at home, Operations is the unit that has contributed very significantly to where she is now. Having “field experience” has given her the relevant insights into planning and executing successful projects.
"Being organised is very important. Have the ability to think on your feet and learn fast. Maintain humility and a good attitude, and look for opportunities even in the smallest of things. Also, always try to be more efficient in the way you do things. Of course, trying to be more efficient in the way you do things always helps too!" With the desire to better develop and manage her product portfolio, Keri was awarded with an SGX supported scholarship for a full-time Masters in Financial Engineering. She has since returned and is currently managing a portfolio of derivatives products. |
 |
 |
As a fresh graduate, Tom wanted a role in the financial industry which would challenge him. SGX's Management Associate (MA) Programme offered him just that.
"SGX is well-known in the financial services community, so working for such a prestigious brand-name was a huge draw factor." The MA programme is a combination of front-to-back structured rotations, business projects, mentorship, and a unique stint at the CEO's office. They all offered a great deal of exposure and growth. In fact, such opportunity was so compelling that Tom decided to reject another well-paying offer even before he knew the result of the final interview for the job. Looking back, he has never regretted his decision. "The MA programme is uniquely tailored to each individual in order to maximise his or her growth and exposure." |
|
Tom started the programme with Clearing and Settlement unit for Securities and Derivatives Products. He then moved to the Business Units to manage structured warrants and certificates. Next was the eye-opening experience of assisting the CEO. He finished with a six-month stint in the Market Surveillance unit. Due to the nature of his fast-paced rotations, Tom was able to learn from the best minds within and outside the organisation, and especially from the senior management. This sharpened his perspectives and developed his ability to look at things from different angles and honed his skills. For example, he learnt about futures trading rules in Market Surveillance, and improved his financial modeling skills in the structured warrants team. "Moving from one unit to another has its own challenges. You are expected to contribute to the team while you are still new to the processes. That's why, you have to learn fast to succeed. It's a good thing that SGX is full of great colleagues who are always willing to teach and mentor you, regardless of their seniority." For example, in Tom's first rotation at Clearing & Settlement, he was tasked to develop contingency procedures should the Derivatives Clearing system encounter a delay. As he initially knew little about the system, he had to read up, interview and meet other senior colleagues intensively to develop a solution, test, and implement it. Once the project was completed and the team's work was recognised, the sweet taste of success was unforgettable. After the programme, Tom decided to return to Clearing & Settlement. His reasoning was that in the Exchange business, all products have to go through the Clearing & Settlement cycle, whether it is exchange or over-the-counter. Being in this unit allowed him to gain deep understanding of different kinds of products. It also gave him the opportunity to interact with various units, from sales to technology to risk management. "It is simply exciting knowing that a lot of challenges and knowledge are waiting ahead for me." |
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|
Key to Success
|
|
Tom believes that before learning how to run, one needs to learn how to walk steadily. Having pursued his education and his career away from home, Tom has developed tenacity and resilience through his independence. This has instilled in him a strong will to learn, overcome, and achieve.
"The speed at which you run is not the most important. You will reach the destination as long as you don't give up" He advises aspiring MAs to build your confidence by constantly learning from the past. If you stumble, do not be afraid to get up and keep running. Also, adapt and learn quickly. Lastly, be grounded, yet set your sights high and do not let anything limit your potential. |
 |
 |
Technology Associate (TA) programme in SGX offered Suqin the best of both worlds: allowing her to continue her passion for IT while satisfying her curiosity of how the Exchange operates. Although all TAs are rotated through the same key functions within Technology; the experience of each TA is different due to the work assigned.
"Every TA has a unique experience, each TA will have a story of theirs to share after two years. This is what makes the TA Programme special." Suqin has built up a diverse portfolio through her rotations. She gained experience and knowledge in these areas: project management, business analysis, technical analyst supporting the trading systems, incident management and network. The rotation to the Office of CIO gave her first hand experience of how management decisions are made. |
|
"In these big bosses meeting, you get to observe how critical decisions were made strategically, introducing a whole new definition to your perspective of things." One of the highlights was Suqin's one month posting to Stockholm to support the testing of REACH-ST – a new Securities Trading Engine which provides SGX with the fastest Trading Engine in the world. This opportunity came as a pleasant surprise and cause for much trepidation having just joined the team for only five months. "The diversity of the experience and knowledge that one can gain in the two year programme is invaluable." Another of the highlights was the experience of managing service outages. Suqin likens her role to that of a like a firefighter who must always think and react quickly – is a race against time to restore the services as quickly as possible. The rare exposure across diverse areas in Technology is truly a privilege, Suqin quips. The journey is exhilarating – with plenty of challenges, guidance and support from teammates and managers. "Every challenge surmount will equip you better for the next one." Suqin has emerged from the TA programme with a good understanding of what it takes to be a Technology professional in the financial industry. |
|
|
Key to Success
|
|
Her advice to aspiring TAs is to have a learner's heart and be open to challenges and changes. Most importantly, have passion and enthusiasm in your work.
"Like what you do and you will be ever ready for anything that comes your way." |
 |
|
×
|
Lester has made his mark as a trail blazer, being the pioneer batch of Management Associates (MA) in SGX. He saw an opportunity, took hold of it and has not looked back.
Although he received offers from various organisations, nothing really caught his eye. But when one of his professors spoke to him about SGX's newly designed MA programme, something clicked. |
|
|
"My professor shared that one thing was for sure. When the top management designed this programme, they were serious about grooming and cultivating young talent to be the next management group in SGX." Lester started his stint as a Management Associate in the Office of the CEO. His interaction with the CEO showed him how leaders draw relationships with seemingly unconnected ideas. It was not just about accomplishing a target and doing well, but to realise what other areas can be developed alongside it, such that the end result would be further enhanced. "The MA programme constantly expects one to possess mental agility to think both vertically and laterally, from different aspects, down to every single detail." When he moved into the Product Development Unit, Lester worked closely with the Head of Products and Services. There, he gained an operational perspective of what was happening in the marketplace. In the Business Analysis unit, Lester learnt more of the systems behind the derivatives products, which gave him the know-how to launch a product successfully. Lester's last rotation in Operations (Market Control) has provided him a comprehensive understanding of the entire product launch. Through this, he knew precisely how much time it would take to complete each task, helping him to manage projects with greater efficiency and control. As an integrated Exchange, the running of any project will inevitably impact or involve different departments. The advantage of the MA programme, he quipped, was being able to gain a bird's eye view of the different aspects of the revenue generating Business Units. "The biggest benefit about the programme is that management takes a personal interest in your development. SGX values talent and development and gives you challenging work opportunities that can make a difference in the organisation. You are given the opportunity to shine and you must prove yourself. So the question is, are you a risk taker?" Upon completing the MA programme, Lester returned to the Product Development Unit to develop and nurture new products. He introduced new products in the SGX securities and derivatives market, across asset classes such as equities and fixed income, and over a variety of instruments such as futures, options, exchange traded funds and exchange traded notes. In addition, the team was constantly involved in projects that reviewed and enhanced SGX's market structure so as to better address the needs of customers. "The MA programme is designed to enhance an individual's strengths by training up his or her ability to think and react quickly in different scenarios and being able to anticipate and mediate problems. This greatly increases the efficiency of your work." After five years in SGX, Lester has returned to the CEO's office once again, this time as a senior staff assistant to the CEO. His efforts and achievements have certainly been recognised. Although he knows that he has high expectations to meet, Lester is ever ready to take challenges with the fighting spirit he inspires. |
||
|
Key to Success
|
|
When asked to share some words of wisdom, Lester encourages potential MAs to grab opportunities and challenges as they come.
"Don't be afraid of failure. Crave for success." Keep reading up, asking questions and be adaptable. Knowing yourself, your risk appetite and what environment suits you, would go a long way in your development. |
|
|
When the choice narrowed between SGX and another organisation's Management Associate (MA) programme, the choice of SGX was clear.
The rationale for his decision was to take the road less travelled. He was also drawn by the fact that SGX provided him with the opportunity to work directly with the CEO. To a fresh graduate, the exposure was invaluable and proved to be the main differentiating factor for him. |
|
|
Since joining SGX's MA programme in July 2009, Derek has rotated from Commodities to Risk Management (Derivatives), Operations (Clearing & Settlement), and finally, the CEO's office. "As a fresh graduate, not many would choose the path of an Exchange or know what it is all about. In the Exchange, we participate in all segments of the market. From up stream to down stream segments - regulators to financial institutions to retail customers. Getting to work with people from different segments of the industry has given me a good grasp of the mechanics of the financial world and what is crucial for its survival." The rotations have given him a macro view of the various units, how they support each other, and has increased his efficiency in completing tasks. Also, working under various unit superiors and the CEO has conditioned him to understand diverse trains of thought in decision-making and to look at things holistically. More importantly, he sees how his efforts fit into the bigger picture and how it contributes towards SGX's goals. The SGX MAs participate actively in the design of their two-year programme in consultation with their mentors, supervisors and HR. The CEO, having worked closely with the MA towards the end of the programme, would also advise on the most suitable department for that individual. This is where they will take up a permanent position based on his/her interests, strengths and abilities. "The MAs are given the flexibility to indicate their preferred department for the permanent position, taking into account the market forces of demand and supply. Such a degree of flexibility and customisation in a graduate programme certainly is rare!" When asked to describe a highlight in his stint, Derek humbly shared that his career has only just begun. However, what gives him a sense of satisfaction is being able to share what he has learnt across units. This sharing helps colleagues gain a better understanding of the Exchange as a whole; helping them appreciate what they do and how they fit into the grand scheme of things. |
||
|
Key to Success
|
|
Derek shares that it is important to be logical, quick-witted, adaptable to new environments. Be open to new ideas and changes and also maintain a spirit of humility.
In addition, knowing your business well and being able to look at things holistically would certainly aid in making better decisions. To be a good leader, one must know how to build relationships with his team, peers and bosses. To Derek, the crux is to remain passionate about what you do and always do whatever it takes to give your best. |
|
|
After going through a rigorous screening process comprising of ability tests, a boardroom simulation, and various interview sessions, Keri stood out amongst the rest, according to one manager. She was elated when she received the offer. | |
|
"What attracted me to SGX was the clarity in its mission, and I clearly understood what the organisation strived to achieve." The SGX Management Associate (MA) programme offers a different model of experience, with great flexibility and customisation. For instance, the managers and HR strategically assess each MA's area of expertise and determine which units the individual is best suited for. This hones and develops the MA's maximum potential in their area of specialisation. Keri's rotation through various departments – Market Development / Product Management, Office of the CEO, Operations, Issuer Regulation – has given her valuable opportunities to network and build relationships. Keri chose to return to Derivatives for her permanent posting as she enjoys interacting with people from diverse backgrounds across the industry. She also has a strong passion to build business cases, and finds it very fulfilling to be part of the growth in businesses and revenues. "Over time, you would understand the mechanics of developing new business and the challenges that may be encountered. Seeing a project take-off is immensely rewarding." As part of the programme, Keri was attached to the CEO's office, and gained exposure to the top management's mindset and working styles. She learnt how to see the “big picture” and understood how the management managed issues. Her familiarity with the various departments has certainly trained her to be more acute in identifying loopholes and anticipating problems. The ability to escalate issues to unit heads from a neutral perspective is invaluable, Keri shared. |
||
|
Key to Success
|
|
Keri advises new MAs to keep an open mind and learn as much as possible while rotating through the various units. Although Derivatives is where she feels at home, Operations is the unit that has contributed very significantly to where she is now. Having “field experience” has given her the relevant insights into planning and executing successful projects.
"Being organised is very important. Have the ability to think on your feet and learn fast. Maintain humility and a good attitude, and look for opportunities even in the smallest of things. Also, always try to be more efficient in the way you do things. Of course, trying to be more efficient in the way you do things always helps too!" With the desire to better develop and manage her product portfolio, Keri was awarded with an SGX supported scholarship for a full-time Masters in Financial Engineering. She has since returned and is currently managing a portfolio of derivatives products. |
|
|
As a fresh graduate, Tom wanted a role in the financial industry which would challenge him. SGX's Management Associate (MA) Programme offered him just that.
"SGX is well-known in the financial services community, so working for such a prestigious brand-name was a huge draw factor." |
|
|
The MA programme is a combination of front-to-back structured rotations, business projects, mentorship, and a unique stint at the CEO's office. They all offered a great deal of exposure and growth. In fact, such opportunity was so compelling that Tom decided to reject another well-paying offer even before he knew the result of the final interview for the job. Looking back, he has never regretted his decision. "The MA programme is uniquely tailored to each individual in order to maximise his or her growth and exposure." Tom started the programme with Clearing and Settlement unit for Securities and Derivatives Products. He then moved to the Business Units to manage structured warrants and certificates. Next was the eye-opening experience of assisting the CEO. He finished with a six-month stint in the Market Surveillance unit. Due to the nature of his fast-paced rotations, Tom was able to learn from the best minds within and outside the organisation, and especially from the senior management. This sharpened his perspectives and developed his ability to look at things from different angles and honed his skills. For example, he learnt about futures trading rules in Market Surveillance, and improved his financial modeling skills in the structured warrants team. "Moving from one unit to another has its own challenges. You are expected to contribute to the team while you are still new to the processes. That's why, you have to learn fast to succeed. It's a good thing that SGX is full of great colleagues who are always willing to teach and mentor you, regardless of their seniority." For example, in Tom's first rotation at Clearing & Settlement, he was tasked to develop contingency procedures should the Derivatives Clearing system encounter a delay. As he initially knew little about the system, he had to read up, interview and meet other senior colleagues intensively to develop a solution, test, and implement it. Once the project was completed and the team's work was recognised, the sweet taste of success was unforgettable. After the programme, Tom decided to return to Clearing & Settlement. His reasoning was that in the Exchange business, all products have to go through the Clearing & Settlement cycle, whether it is exchange or over-the-counter. Being in this unit allowed him to gain deep understanding of different kinds of products. It also gave him the opportunity to interact with various units, from sales to technology to risk management. "It is simply exciting knowing that a lot of challenges and knowledge are waiting ahead for me." |
||
|
Key to Success
|
|
Tom believes that before learning how to run, one needs to learn how to walk steadily. Having pursued his education and his career away from home, Tom has developed tenacity and resilience through his independence. This has instilled in him a strong will to learn, overcome, and achieve.
"The speed at which you run is not the most important. You will reach the destination as long as you don't give up" He advises aspiring MAs to build your confidence by constantly learning from the past. If you stumble, do not be afraid to get up and keep running. Also, adapt and learn quickly. Lastly, be grounded, yet set your sights high and do not let anything limit your potential. |
|
|
Technology Associate (TA) programme in SGX offered Suqin the best of both worlds: allowing her to continue her passion for IT while satisfying her curiosity of how the Exchange operates. Although all TAs are rotated through the same key functions within Technology; the experience of each TA is different due to the work assigned. | |
|
"Every TA has a unique experience, each TA will have a story of theirs to share after two years. This is what makes the TA Programme special." Suqin has built up a diverse portfolio through her rotations. She gained experience and knowledge in these areas: project management, business analysis, technical analyst supporting the trading systems, incident management and network. The rotation to the Office of CIO gave her first hand experience of how management decisions are made. "In these big bosses meeting, you get to observe how critical decisions were made strategically, introducing a whole new definition to your perspective of things." One of the highlights was Suqin's one month posting to Stockholm to support the testing of REACH-ST – a new Securities Trading Engine which provides SGX with the fastest Trading Engine in the world. This opportunity came as a pleasant surprise and cause for much trepidation having just joined the team for only five months. "The diversity of the experience and knowledge that one can gain in the two year programme is invaluable." Another of the highlights was the experience of managing service outages. Suqin likens her role to that of a like a firefighter who must always think and react quickly – is a race against time to restore the services as quickly as possible. The rare exposure across diverse areas in Technology is truly a privilege, Suqin quips. The journey is exhilarating – with plenty of challenges, guidance and support from teammates and managers. "Every challenge surmount will equip you better for the next one." Suqin has emerged from the TA programme with a good understanding of what it takes to be a Technology professional in the financial industry. |
||
|
Key to Success
|
|
Her advice to aspiring TAs is to have a learner's heart and be open to challenges and changes. Most importantly, have passion and enthusiasm in your work.
"Like what you do and you will be ever ready for anything that comes your way." |
|
|
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