My academic foundation for a career in finance began with a B. Com (Honors) from Delhi University, followed by an MBA in Finance. My interest in business law and accounting led me to complete the Company Secretary Course from the Institute of Company Secretaries of India. I also earned the FRM designation and additional industry certifications in IFRS and Climate Risk. 
 

My journey in quantitative finance began whilst I was working in Credit Risk at Canara Bank and then transitioned to Market Risk at Union Bank of India, two of India's largest banking institutions. During this time, I worked on projects involving FRTB, LIBOR Transition, CVA, counterparty credit risk implementation, and comprehensive market risk management. My career then evolved toward the product side when I joined Oracle Financial Services Software (OFSS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Oracle Corporation, as Principal Product Manager. There, I focused on developing Basel IV-compliant regulatory risk solutions for multiple jurisdictions within the OFSAA product suite on the Market Risk side. This decade-plus experience gave me an understanding of the entire risk management value chain.

I chose to pursue the Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF) to deepen my expertise in risk management and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the mathematical foundations underlying financial models. This certification also allowed me to explore cutting-edge applications of machine learning and its growing influence in financial markets. My decision was driven by the CQF curriculum, which ranges from foundational concepts to advanced practical applications in financial markets. The program offered a unique opportunity to learn from distinguished industry practitioners and to become part of a diverse, global network of CQF professionals. The CQF's unique curriculum and commitment to lifelong learning stand unparalleled in the field. While traditional master’s programs in quantitative finance are well-suited for early-career professionals, the CQF program offered distinct advantages for mid-senior professionals like me. Its flexibility and focus on cutting-edge skills made it a clear choice for my professional development. The program's structure perfectly aligns well with the needs of experienced practitioners seeking to enhance their expertise while maintaining their professional commitments.
 

On a personal note, I'm relieved and proud to have completed the CQF program in the shortest time period (six months) and to have received a Distinction. While the journey demanded some sacrifices, including a temporary retreat from social life, the accomplishment was worth every challenge that I encountered along the way.
 

At the present time, I am a Customer Journey Expert at ING, specializing in Market Risk with a focus on equities and commodities risk classes. In this multifaceted role, I navigate as Product Manager, Business Analyst, and Subject Matter Expert, supporting internal stakeholders across our global operations. My responsibilities span the entire Market Risk and Change Management spectrum, requiring close collaboration with diverse teams including risk managers, program managers, quantitative analysts, and IT professionals.

The CQF certification has proven transformative, unlocking numerous opportunities for both professional advancement and personal development. It has enhanced my ability to comprehend, connect, and deliver effectively in my current role while consolidating my years of industry experience. Moreover, the program has enabled me to pursue compelling projects that align perfectly with my areas of interest, creating a synergy between my professional expertise and personal passions.
 

Having completed the CQF program, I am now delving deeper into specific areas covered in the CQF lectures and electives that align closely with my professional responsibilities and personal interests. I firmly believe that the future belongs to those who continuously reinvent themselves. For those seriously interested in quantitative finance and machine learning applications in the financial world, the CQF is an unequivocal choice - provided they're prepared to invest the necessary time and resources. However, I'd offer an important caveat to current and prospective students: mastering complex subjects isn't confined to a 6 to12 month timeframe. While the CQF provides exceptional direction, resources, and support, ultimate success depends on individual dedication, intellectual curiosity, and commitment. Excellence in this field requires patience and persistent effort - there are no shortcuts to mastery.