Join us for an in-depth conversation with Kristin Dickhausen from b-next as she offers profound insights into the realm of financial compliance. With a career spanning six years and experience in capital markets surveillance, Kristin shares her journey, strategies for staying ahead in a dynamic industry, and invaluable advice for aspiring professionals.
Tell us about your role at b-next and how you came to be there. What aspects of your work motivate you the most?
I first encountered b-next almost 6 years ago at a job fair in Bad Salzuflen, Germany, towards the end of my Bachelor’s degree in International Management. I was keen to work in a company with a strong international focus, and concurrently, I was working on my bachelor’s thesis in finance. With its international team and focus on Capital Markets Surveillance, b-next really caught my attention.
Compliance is often seen as a dull topic, but I don’t view it that way at all. Films like “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “The Big Short” vividly demonstrate that financial markets provide ample material for exciting stories. Beyond Hollywood, events like the Wirecard Scandal highlight the necessity for sensible regulation and effective compliance measures. What motivates me about my work is not only delving into such intriguing topics of the financial world, but also the shared interest within the team and our collaborative efforts in developing future compliance solutions.
The financial industry is dynamic and volatile. How do you cope with that and stay up-to-date with technologies and developments in your field? Any recommendations for other professionals working in this industry?
At b-next, we have regular trainings on financial and compliance topics. Additionally, I keep myself updated through literature, current publications, and newsletters. Podcasts also serve as a great resource for discovering trending topics in financial technology. However, in my opinion, the most valuable aspect is the discourse and exchange with colleagues, as diverse perspectives and opinions form the basis for innovation.
What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to a career in financial technology? Are there specific skills or experiences that are particularly important for success?
I believe you don’t necessarily need specific prerequisites to work in this field as long as you’re willing to learn. However, a global mindset is advantageous. The ability to perceive things from different angles, to identify overarching connections, and a degree of foresight are essential in a rapidly evolving environment like financial technology. Ultimately, passion for the subject is key; interest is a fundamental requirement in any industry, not just financial technology.