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  3. Fredrik Aas, SIX
Emerging talent

SIX


Fredrik Aas


10 December 2024

Fredrik Aas, clearing architecture specialist at SIX, tells Daniel Tison about his quantitative risk model and the importance of a collaborative learning environment in the workplace

Image: Fredrik Aas
Can you tell me about your journey into the securities finance industry?

My entry into the industry was quite random. I have always had a strong interest in finance and financial markets, though I had no direct experience in the field when I first joined SIX. I started in a part-time role with their Norwegian branch while doing my bachelor's degree. I was fortunate to work with managers who recognised my potential and trusted me with increasing responsibilities.

Early on, I was given operational responsibilities of an IT project for the Nordics, which became a pivotal experience. This role eventually transitioned into a full-time position with the Clearing Architecture team, where I am currently employed, which focuses on risk management and operational topics.

As a young professional, what aspects of your role or the industry do you find most exciting?

I find the broad nature of the industry to be highly enticing. I have been exposed to a wide range of topics that not only fuel my curiosity but also contribute significantly to my growth.

One particularly rewarding experience has been my involvement in a project to build a new risk model. This project has expanded my role, giving me increased responsibility and exposure to complex challenges that go beyond traditional finance. It has been highly quantitative, involving advanced mathematical and statistical models for risk estimation, alongside state-of-the-art IT solutions.

Working on this has been deeply rewarding and has strengthened my skills in both IT and quantitative risk 鈥 areas that are invaluable for my professional development. Based on my educational background so far, I have found that topics like these are underrepresented, though they will undoubtedly be important for the industry going forward.

Many companies offer various training and development opportunities for their employees. How has your company supported your growth?

I feel fortunate to work for a company that values development. SIX offers a wide range of training and development programmes, from online courses covering nearly any area of interest to multi-year development tracks.

I was fortunate to be selected for the 鈥楰ey Talent Journey鈥, a 12-month programme focused on personal and leadership growth. This programme brought together around 20 young talents from across the company鈥檚 business units, and included on-site and off-site courses, individual coaching, as well as sessions with senior management. This allowed me to connect with colleagues across the organisation and gain insights into different products and services.

That said, my most valuable learning experiences have come from my immediate peers and managers. The industry鈥檚 broad scope means that no single person can know it all, and I am lucky to work with colleagues who are eager to teach and share knowledge. My managers also prioritise this collaborative learning environment, even when it may take extra time. This support system has been instrumental in my development and growth within the company.

What misconceptions about working in the financial industry have you encountered, and how do you address these challenges?

There is a common perception of finance as a rigid, hierarchical industry with long hours and a strict dress code. In my experience, that could not be further from the truth. Like in most industries, there are times when overtime is needed, but I have felt no pressure from my managers to work late, quite the opposite 鈥 they genuinely value work-life balance and often encourage me to maintain it.

That said, working in clearing presents a unique balance. While we operate with a flat structure day-to-day, certain projects and decisions require a defined hierarchy and formal processes to ensure operational integrity, as failure is not an option in our line of work. For me, this blend is ideal, as I get the freedom and flexibility of a flat structure, along with the clarity and direction of a structured hierarchy when needed.

Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the next five years in terms of your career goals
and aspirations?


I find this question challenging, as I do not have a fixed five-year plan despite being motivated and ambitious. I do not like the idea of staying in a role or company for a set number of years. Instead, my focus is on continual learning and seeking out new challenges.

A colleague once gave me valuable advice: 鈥淒on鈥檛 chase salary, positions, or titles 鈥 chase projects.鈥 This has shaped my outlook, and if I have a five-year goal, it would be to pursue meaningful projects and opportunities that allow me to grow, learn, and deepen my expertise in diverse areas.

What advice do you have for other young professionals aspiring to pursue a career in your industry?

My advice for young professionals entering the financial industry would be to stay curious and humble. Ask questions and make the most of learning from others. Every organisation has its experts who are often more than willing to share their knowledge. Seek them out and absorb as much as you can.

That being said, I believe it is important not to shy away from stepping up and taking on responsibilities. Doing so provides invaluable learning opportunities, and most managers will encourage and support your initiative.

On a more practical note, I believe that mastering technical tools early in your career is essential. In my experience, these skills allow you to automate routine tasks, freeing up time to tackle more engaging and complex problems. They also enable you to dive deeper into data analysis, which is often central to the work of young finance professionals.
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