MarketAxess
Aidan Kempin
17 September 2024
Aidan Kempin, a relationship manager working with MarketAxess in London, speaks with Daniel Tison about his experience in the securities finance industry and the significance of maintaining the industry’s human-centric aspect
Image: Aidan Kempin
Can you tell me about your journey into the securities finance industry?
My journey began with a degree in financial economics and banking from Coventry University in London. When I joined MarketAxess as an intern — under the leadership of Camille McKelvey — I quickly grasped the essence of relationship selling.
Today, in my role as associate sales relationship manager in post-trade, I work on successful sales campaigns that boost revenue, which has been extremely fulfilling. Through each step, I have immersed myself in the dynamic complexities of the securities finance industry, which is both challenging and rewarding in equal measure.
As a young professional, what aspects of your role or the industry do you find most exciting?
What excites me most is the dynamic nature of cultivating client relationships and navigating deals. Every day presents new opportunities — a call, a meeting, or even a lunch — where I thrive on using my skills to steer opportunities in the most advantageous direction for MarketAxess.
This keeps me engaged and motivated to the point where I often think that it genuinely does not feel like a job. The combination of challenges, excitement, and the chance to make a real impact makes each day uniquely fulfilling in this industry.
Many companies offer various training and development opportunities for their employees. How has your company supported your growth?
At MarketAxess, I have experienced exceptional support for professional growth. From the guidance of managers like Camille McKelvey and Haider Ali, to opportunities like enrolling in an IMC course, the company invests in my development comprehensively.
What is truly valuable is the open culture and flat organisational structure that encourages asking questions and receiving genuine answers regardless of level or seniority. This accessibility enhances learning and problem-solving, which can be crucial for navigating sales campaigns and tackling intricate challenges. It is this supportive ecosystem that has significantly shaped my journey, fostering both personal and professional growth.
What misconceptions about working in the financial industry have you encountered, and how do you address these challenges?
There is a prevailing misconception that the financial industry is solely cold and profit-driven. However, I have found it to be fundamentally about building enduring relationships.
As a young professional, I have worked on impactful sales campaigns that highlight how effective communication and mentorship can reshape these perceptions. By demonstrating the industry's dynamic and welcoming nature through actionable initiatives, we show that it is more than just numbers — it is about fostering trust and delivering value that resonates beyond transactions.
I aim to uphold the torch for the old-style ethos of the city — keeping a desk phone and never saying no to an opportunity to meet with a client in person, whether in the office, coffee shop or pub. This approach not only challenges stereotypes, but also enriches the industry's reputation, emphasising its human-centric aspect amid the complexities of finance and the new age of AI.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the next five years in terms of your career goals and aspirations?
In the next five years, my aim is to advance into a senior leadership role where I can drive strategic sales initiatives and achieve substantial revenue targets. I aspire to lead high-performing sales teams, leveraging my skills in project management and financial analysis to streamline performance holistically.
I plan to expand my professional network, which will be necessary in forging strong client relationships and exploring new market opportunities. My goal is not only to meet, but to surpass expectations, contributing significantly to the growth and reputation of MarketAxess.
What advice do you have for other young professionals aspiring to pursue a career in your industry?
My advice to aspiring professionals in the financial industry is to prioritise cultivating strong relationships and embracing challenges head-on.
From my journey, I have learned that resilience and adaptability are indispensable traits in navigating this dynamic field.
Embrace mentorship opportunities to glean insights from seasoned professionals — it is invaluable for personal and professional growth.
Remember, success in this industry is not just about celebrating victories, but also about learning from setbacks. Each experience, whether positive or challenging, contributes to the development and readiness for future opportunities.
Stay proactive, stay curious, and continually strive to expand your knowledge and skills.
Aidan Kempin bio
Originally from the countryside of Durham in the Northeast of England, Aidan Kempin is now navigating the fast-paced world of London's financial sector. With a first-class degree in financial economics and banking from Coventry University London, he has progressed from intern to associate at MarketAxess, leading successful sales campaigns and achieving significant revenue milestones.
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