Since school, my favourite subject has been mathematics, which has also contributed to my choice of career. I am from Jēkabpils, and when I was in 12th grade, I attended the preparatory courses of the BA School of Business and Finance, after which I was admitted to the business school.
During the summer I had a chance to work in a jewellery shop, where I discovered how much I also like working with people. I enjoyed being able to tailor what the customer wanted to what was on offer. It made me happy when people would leave smiling, happy, and come back again after a while!
Being able to adapt to any situation
When I started my studies, the programme I chose fully met my expectations. It gave me the opportunity to acquire vast knowledge and to meet many new people, some of whom I am still friends with.
During my studies, I had the opportunity to work in active sales at Citadele Bank. This experience further highlighted my strengths and gave me a good idea of how much I enjoy working with clients.
To be honest, I can't imagine working in an office without interacting with people. I need feedback and emotions to give and receive. It is in this job that I developed and improved the adaptability skills that are inherent to me. By the way, I also had the honour of being part of the launch of American Express in Latvia.
Playing a part in setting up the Private Banking department
My career at Nordea Bank started with the choice of where to do my internship. It was prestigious, reputable, and one of the most stable and largest Nordic banks in Latvia. During my internship I proved myself and was offered to stay at the bank. Initially I worked in one of the branches, but it wasn't half a year before I was noticed and appreciated, and offered a job in Private Banking, because that was when this department was being set up. I can say that I have been part of the creation of the department and not only watched from the sidelines, but also participated in its growth and development. It started with six people, but now it has grown to be very large and stable. Alongside my work, I completed a Master's degree at RISEBA in Integrated Public Relations Communications. I believe that trust in the financial sector goes hand in hand with both reputation and image, which can be influenced by both employees and clients. As Warren Buffett said, "It takes 20 years to build a reputation and 5 minutes to ruin it".
Time off is for recharging
To do your job to the fullest, you need to be recharged. I love spending time with my family in nature, travelling together, and getting to know the culture and customs of other countries. I also enjoy attending cultural events in Latvia.
We try to make our lifestyle as healthy as possible, so last year, for example, we started cold water swimming in the winter, and we still do it. I find water healing, soothing, and, yes, recharging. I also do pilates, yoga, and in winter my family and I like to ski.
I am open to everything new, so a few years ago I started windsurfing. I believe life is like math: you don't get the results until you do all the calculations. So, I think it's good to try new things to see if it’s right for me or not. Especially in times like ours; you don't know what tomorrow will bring, so you have to enjoy today. Besides, future is made of what you do today, not tomorrow.