Kristiana joined SEB almost two years ago, making a major change in her career. She used to be a secretary but taking an advice from a family friend, she decided to change her career to finance and found her calling. Get to know her story and maybe it will inspire you to start yours!
How did you join SEB?
I was not specifically looking for a job at SEB, but my family friend who works there said that there were open vacancies, so I looked into it. Having no financial background made me hesitate for a while, but I wanted to have a stable job, so I took a chance. What really stood out for me that during the recruitment process more attention was paid to my personal traits and attitude than my work experience. I feel like the manager saw the potential in me that I did not realize at that time and she gave me this opportunity.
Kristiāna Horna
Title: Bank Operations Specialist, Securities Reconciliation, Private Banking Operations & Reconciliation
Education: Higher education in Business management (unfinished)
Personal Interests: Animals, nature, travel
What was your initial opinion of SEB and how has it changed since you joined?
Before joining my opinion about SEB was, I guess, similar to one many might have – it is a financial institution with a long history, where people are very serious, think and work within certain old-fashioned frames. What I have discovered was the complete opposite – a multicultural and diverse group of people in an ever-changing environment, implementing innovative solutions and adapting to overcome every obstacle they encounter. A supportive team and managers that value and put people first. From the first day I felt encouraged to do my best.
Also, I really appreciate how our company reacts to the situations and events like COVID19, war in Ukraine and inflation, I feel like the company cares and takes action to support and help both employees and others affected. This long-term thinking is in line with my values as well.
What is it that you do and why you love doing it?
I work in securities reconciliation team and my job title is bank operations specialist. My everyday job is going through financial data and deviations, investigating them and reporting. I love order and I always pay attention to details in everyday life, so spotting mistakes and correcting them is something I enjoy doing.
As we provide our services to SEB clients globally, I also like the diversity within the company, and I feel like it broadens my perspective.
What are you excited about in the future?
I have my own plans and goals. I enjoy learning and I plan to take some specific courses, for instance, Accounting this year in Campus, our internal university. I do not have any specific career goals now, but I feel like if you show good performance and growth in your field, demonstrate openness to new things and curiosity about other fields, the opportunities will certainly come.
Also, I am excited to start working in our new office building GUSTAVS this summer! I love natural light and from what I have seen there is going to be plenty of that. Starting the day with a workout in our new gym or having a meeting on the terrace will make our work days even more colourful!
What gives you energy and helps to recharge after work?
I love animals. I devote my free time to helping stray cats find new homes. Some time ago I temporarily took in three kittens and two of them actually found their permanent homes with my colleagues. The third one stayed with me. This is the reason why my colleagues nicknamed me “the cat dealer”. There is a great rewarding feeling about helping someone in need and I feel that helping others is the best way to spend your time. This is also how I spent my annual volunteering day, and I am glad we get to have days like this, to where our employer encourages us to give back to the society.
I enjoy being outdoors and being active. Sometimes a good walk takes away all the worries and tiredness of the day.
What would you say to anyone considering joining SEB?
New beginnings often make you feel unsure, but if you overcome it, you will get all the support needed to have a great start in your career. You will be surprised how many interesting and innovative things are going on here, and you will be welcome to become involved and contribute.
