Fabian F. - Middle Office Manager

After earning a Masters degree in Economics at the Sorbonne and in management, Fabian worked in a large French bank before joining Exane in 2006 as a Middle Office Manager for the Italian clientele.

How was your first day in the Group?
"In the Middle Office, we use very specific language. I was a bit lost the first two weeks. I had to learn all the vocabulary! Luckily, the atmosphere in the department is excellent, and you can fit in easily once you know the rudiments of this new language!"

What is the role of a Middle Office Manager?
"We clear the daily orders booked by the trading team. We check that the trades have gone through properly, and that there are no conflicts on the share price, quantity or date of the orders. The customer relations side of our job is very important. Each manager has his or her own portfolio of clients but we have to be flexible and able to oversee all the dossiers being handled."

What are the main qualities of a MO Manager?
"It is crucial to be able to manage stress and priorities. Large volumes of information flow in from the various departments and converge in the Middle Office. You must know how to manage this influx of data and manage each request based on how urgent it is. You learn a great deal about being rigorous and organised in your work. Commercial skills are also indispensable, as we are always in contact with the client. You have to be reactive and dynamic!"

What do you like about your job?
"I love being in contact with clients every day, I use my knowledge of English and Italian. There is also an adrenaline rush when we have to clear a deal in a short amount of time. When we complete the trade, we feel really great! But the most important thing for me is the good atmosphere and the solidarity within the team."

Is there an experience you'd like to share with us?
"I am really looking forward to my first business trip in Italy. I'll be able to meet my clients and try to further improve our interactions with them."