Nana Executive Director/Vice President, South Africa Investment Banking Investment Banking division, Johannesburg

This is a unique work environment: We strive to produce high quality work consistently for all clients. This is what differentiates us from the rest of the market.
 

My Work

I work in the Investment Banking division at Goldman Sachs. Our team focuses on the metal and mining sector. I’m responsible for executing transactions and advising clients. My job has many interesting facets. I most enjoy engaging in strategic dialogue with the leaders of various companies and developing creative solutions for our clients. This job gives me and my team the opportunity to explore new markets and to work on transactions that help shape the mining business landscape. Because Goldman Sachs is seen as a thought leader, we are, by association, involved in many interesting opportunities.

Team work is not limited to the immediate office only: We work in teams across different product categories and multiple geographical regions. Everything we do is focused on team work, and it is this team effort that often produces the right results.

My Day

My current assignments include advising our clients with their projects. I find it most interesting to work with them to develop solutions that ultimately bring value to their company’s shareholders. The hours are long, and the work is constantly challenging. We always have to stay ahead of the curve by developing new ideas and keeping ahead of the rest of the industry.

At the end of the day, my work has tangible, rewarding results. Whether that comes in the form of a new company listing, or IPO, or a new business combination that didn’t exist before, it’s real and it’s satisfying.

My Path

I came to Goldman Sachs through a recruiter. I was previously at another investment bank and can say that the intensity of my Goldman Sachs experience has been enriching as I have learned so much in a short space of time.

My first impression of Goldman Sachs was that this is a very special place with talented people and a strong sense of culture. Our clients' interests always come first. It is the focus of everything we do.

Myself

I’ve always wanted to be a banker. I did not have specific thoughts on where I should work, but I’m certainly happy that I ended up at Goldman Sachs. This is a unique work environment: We strive to produce high quality work consistently for all clients. This is what differentiates us from the rest of the market.

I’d advise those who are considering a career in finance to remain focused on achieving their goals. Prepare well for interviews, ensure that you get as broad an experience as possible from your university education and remain actively involved in what’s happening in the world today, in the markets and otherwise.