Kathy Ding – My Career at Standard Chartered

Kathy, Deputy City General Manager, Chengdu Branch tells us about her time so far at the Bank

What did you want to be when you were younger?

Initially I wanted to be a biologist when I was younger, however I also had a general interest in accounting and finance.

Is that how you got into banking?

Yes, hence the role I'm in now at Standard Chartered.

You joined the bank through our Early Careers Programme; how did this shape your overall experience at the Bank?

I have worked in 4 different cities and 6 different positions in my time at Standard Chartered. Upon joining, I had the opportunity to have in total 3 months’ academic training overseas, and rotated in 3 different roles covering frontline, back office and risk, so I gained a wealth of experience. All these roles have helped me gain international exposure and a wide understanding about the bank and how it operates, which have been very helpful throughout my career so far.

And what do you love most about working here?

What I love most, is that the Bank's culture and values fit with mine completely and working hard really pays off here. 'Never settle' is a spirit that brings an inner drive for one to perform, and 'do the right thing' is a merit that creates a culture of integrity, justice and equality. 'Better together' is team spirit. All these are deep beliefs of mine. I got promoted in the 2nd year of my deployment during a world wide financial crisis, because of the  hard work I put in. I wouldn't ever forget the satisfaction and motivation from this promotion. Hard work did pay off here and i feel extremely proud and grateful for it.

You’ve worked in quite a few different markets and cities within Greater China. What made you take up these exciting roles?

I would say it’s the curiosity for the unknown, the courage to step out of my comfort zone and the vast opportunities in the Greater China area that altogether had got me there.

Amazing! And what about you outside of work, what do you like to do?

Outside of work I love travelling, reading, photography, dancing, playing guzheng and swimming - I like to keep active.

Indeed! What's the best part of your day?

Without a doubt is coming home and hugging my 2 children. 

Doing what you are good at makes you outstanding, but doing what you are interested in makes you extraordinary.

What would you say to someone coming to interview with the Bank?

I would say my biggest tip for interviewing with Standard Chartered is to be yourself and make sure you understand the bank. I'd suggest looking at the website and getting to know what we do and what we're about. Also please bring your true self with you.

What's really exciting is that in the Greater China area, there are massive opportunities for growth over the next 5 years. We are one of oldest foreign banks in China, and we are one of only three note issuing banks in Hong Kong. We welcome the ambitious to join and succeed with us.

Great! And finally, 3 words to describe working at Standard Chartered?

Adventurous, proud and rewarding.