As soon as I joined SEB, all my stereotypes about boring hours at work collapsed. Sanctions Screening area, especially in this situation, is a very dynamic environment in which to be in and develop. Every day you have to face different situations, even those that you are not ready for and have to learn ‘on the go’ because sanctions are ‘very deep waters’. I like it!
How did your journey at SEB begin?
It was unexpected and unplanned. At the time, I had recently left my previous job and set in LinkedIn that 'I'm open to work’. After a few days, I received a message from my current manager with a proposal to interview and an opportunity to be part of SEB. At that time, I didn't have the slightest understanding of sanctions, but looking at the sources, I thought it might be interesting, so I agreed. I have been here for 2 years now and I am really glad that my career at SEB started as a surprise.
Laura Kaupere
Title: Quality Process Area Specialist, Sanctions Screening team
Education: Professional Bachelor’s degree in Culture Management from EKA University of Applied Sciences, currently studying Business Process Management at BA School of Business and Finance.
During my school years, I always thought that I would work very closely with people. For a moment I wanted to become a psychologist, then it seemed like I am close to art and I wanted to become an interior designer. In the end I decided to study organization of events, because I always liked to be a part of such activities. However, after my studies, I realised that it could be more on a hobby level and during my studies I was eager to learn some ‘life basics’ that would be useful in the future as I have a small dream about having my own company. In the end I decided to study entrepreneurship.
Personal interests: Peace and balance. Sports and activities are important to me. I prefer morning workouts, as a way to ‘awaken’ my body for the day or evening workouts to let off the steam accumulated during the day. I also fall into the category of 'love to travel', but it does not mean only abroad, but also within Latvia. My list of sightseeing places in Latvia is quite impressive, I am happy about holiday trips outside my home. I am taking it all! A lot of power and inspiration comes from nature, by that I mean evening walks in the forest or near the sea, which are common everyday rituals for me are.
What are the tasks and responsibilities in your current role?
Screening Unit ensures transaction and customer screening against for SEB companies in more than 12 locations worldwide. We also take part in AML procedures to ensure that customers are not involved in fraudulent activities and do not co-operate with subjects of sanctions. My task as a Quality Process Area Specialist is to help the team to have their best knowledge, to provide coaching and feedback, facilitate knowledge transfer sessions, identify and mitigate typical mistakes, take part in risk mitigation & error rate control as well as monitor post Go-lives for new initiatives.
What motivates you at work?
While working at SEB, I am aware that if a person is active, develops and shows initiative, the company and managers will provide career opportunities. This is my biggest motivator, to realise that, if I am willing to take next steps in my career, everything is in my own hands!
What is your favorite part of working at SEB?
Dynamic environment, challenges, events, colleagues, everyday tasks, all of it! I could call myself a patriot of SEB.
I really appreciate what the company provides for the employees.
We have a lot of 'benefits', which are not a mandatory requirement of the bank. In that way, I feel appreciated.
What are your plans for the future?
I don't paint the big picture, I accept everything life has to give, as we say, 'go with the flow'. Of course, there are some things and goals that I want to achieve, but I am not one to write down five to ten-year plans, because life tends to surprise me. Possibly I will have my own, small business, but who knows... However, one thing I do know, is that I see myself in the future as a part of SEB.
What do you enjoy doing to relax after work?
I really appreciate the moments when I can be alone, with myself, as well as the moments when I can be with family and friends. It fills my heart and I'm happy, as we used to call 'the little things in life' that makes the whole happy picture. When it's summer, then there will definitely be an evening swim. I also love to watch movies, so the first opportunity after a long day of work, I will run to cinema to enjoy new movies.
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