Ru Jun

My academic background is in Operations & Supply Chain Management. While my early career aspirations were diverse, my university studies led me to internships in the FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) sector. Though seemingly unrelated to finance, these experiences provided me with a strong foundation in process optimisation, data analysis and strategic decision-making. It was only through a summer internship in the Operations division that I discovered a genuine passion for the finance industry and the abundant opportunities it offers. 

Impressed by the firm’s commitment to excellence and opportunities for growth, I joined Goldman Sachs full-time in 2020 after a summer internship in Operations the year prior, starting in Treasury Controls within Corporate Treasury. My first year and a half coincided with the challenges of remote working and collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic, but I continued to receive opportunities for growth over the next four years, leading me to my current role in Bank Relationship Management within the same division. What truly attracted me to Goldman Sachs was the exceptional people and the firm’s commitment to foster a supportive and challenging environment where individuals can thrive and become future leaders. Over the years, the willingness of colleagues to provide support and constructive feedback, coupled with the opportunities to collaborate on diverse projects, fostered an environment where I felt empowered to grow both professionally and personally. 

My office is situated within the bustling Tanjong Pagar area, a vibrant part of Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD). This prime location offers a diverse array of dining options, from local hawker fare to upscale restaurants and bars, providing ample opportunities for team gatherings. Over the years, the office has adapted to evolving workplace trends, transitioning from traditional dual-monitor setups to single, ultra-wide screens and incorporating standing desks to promote employee well-being. 

I’m part of the Bank Relationship Management team at Goldman Sachs. We are responsible for building and nurturing strategic relationships with our network of agent banks. Our primary focus is to optimise relationships to maximise commercial and operational benefits for the firm. 

What I appreciate most about my role is its dynamic nature. No two days are alike; whether navigating unexpected escalations or capitalising on emerging business prospects, each day presents unique challenges and opportunities. This environment necessitates a proactive approach and the ability to think creatively. To thrive in this role, one needs to be both independent and collaborative. The ability to form sound judgements is essential, especially when leading large group discussions and influencing stakeholders across different departments. Strong communication skills, coupled with the capacity to prioritise effectively and manage expectations, are also paramount. The most rewarding aspect of my work is undoubtedly the collaborative culture at Goldman Sachs and the opportunity to learn from incredibly talented individuals. The diversity of thought and experiences within Goldman Sachs has been instrumental in developing innovative and comprehensive solutions to complex challenges. Witnessing how different perspectives converge to meet these challenges is truly inspiring. 

My day starts by reviewing overnight communications to inform our Asia teams of urgent matters, minimising disruptions. I divide my time between internal and external engagement. Externally, I connect with stakeholders for insights into Asia markets and regulatory changes. Internally, I contribute to projects that drive commercial value and mitigate risks. 

Partnership is the most applicable core value because complex issues require collaboration. My daily challenges need input from multiple teams for successful resolution. Individuals quickly unite, share ideas, and contribute to solutions. This collaborative spirit is essential for navigating complex landscapes and achieving optimal outcomes. 

I value Goldman Sachs’ culture for its blend of a high-performance environment and a nurturing support system. I feel empowered to take on challenges with access to resources and mentorship. From comprehensive training programmes to networking opportunities and open dialogues with senior leadership, the firm provides a robust support network that fosters professional growth. I appreciate being given opportunities to lead initiatives, contribute my ideas and drive progress, all while knowing that I have a strong support system behind me. This combination of accountability and support allows me to thrive and continually push myself to achieve even greater heights.