MFin International Finance and Financial Institutions

Calum McLeod is on of our Alumni who completed the MFin programme, and now works in London. Read his profile below for his impressions of the programme, and what life has been like for him after studying at the University of Glasgow.

The MFin programme is offered by the department of Accounting and Finance. To find out more about the programme, follow this link: MFin International Finance and Financial Institutions.
 
Name: Calum McLeod
Nationality: British
Background: Varied – from teaching mathematics to auditing
Current Post: Hybrids Product Controller, HSBC

Holding a masters qualification in Finance is well regarded in the business world; I felt this was the best course for me to take to give me a solid grounding in finance from a respected university. I was interested in the subjects on offer, and the methods of teaching – half taught, half research – appealed to me. I had previously been a student of the University of Glasgow, and my experiences there had been positive, so this also played a role in my decision.

Over the course of the year, I grew to understand certain financial aspects and their associated consequences. The course material proved invaluable to me, allowing me to understand the progress being made in the financial world. This insight sums up the MFin for me: being exposed to a
 
huge variety of thinking from lecturers, students and journals, giving me the opportunity to form my own opinions, and then discuss them. The diversity of my fellow students, and the emphasis on teamwork helps me to build relationships with people in my work and organise my routine to optimal effect.

The support and teaching were excellent. We were always encouraged to debate issues arising from classes. I found myself among like-minded people who were as driven as I was, with a thirst for academic excellence and the will to socialise as a balance to the hard work. I made a lot of long-lasting friendships throughout the year and for that I am very grateful.

I am currently working for HSBC as a Hybrids Product Controller in their Investment Banking division. I am located in their head office in Canary Wharf, London. My average day is varied; from creating and analysing the daily derivative profit & loss accounts to co-ordinating with traders on their stock market transactions. I work closely with back office, IT and risk management, in building and processing new products from around the globe. The work provides an excellent opportunity to apply my academic knowledge to real-world scenarios; while at the same time challenging me to progress my understanding of how this relatively new business operates.

I owe my job to the MFin course. I am reaping the dividends of a challenging and enjoyable year of study.