Carla Duffus, Assistant Director
Assistant Director in Portfolio Management Carla talks about working at the National Wealth Fund.
Tell us what attracted you to join the NWF?
It's an organisation which is trying to catalyse change in the UK. I saw this as a great learning opportunity, both to understand new sectors as well as the ways in which the Fund can be innovative to solve problems organisations are facing.
What does your role involve?
No two days are the same. Externally, we deal with a variety of organisations across a range of sectors, understanding how they operate and how best we can continue to support their needs whilst protecting the investment NWF has made. Internally, we liaise across the Fund to ensure we are up to date on pipeline deals, policy updates and reporting. It's a real team effort!
What is the NWF like to work for?
NWF benefits from being a relatively young organisation with an important mandate. We have a shared sense of purpose which is often lacking in bigger and more mature companies. The Fund really listens to feedback and takes suggestions on board.
What were you doing before you joined the Fund, and how has your experience helped with the role you are now doing?
Prior to joining NWF I worked in a few teams across the Investment Bank side of Barclays. A lot of my time in previous roles was spent collaborating across internal and external stakeholders which has been invaluable coming into NWF.
What are you looking forward to next at the NWF?
Within Portfolio we are the team that manages assets and external relationships once the Banking team have executed the transaction. Now we are filling up the portfolio it's really interesting to see how businesses develop and change over time.
What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a role here?
If you like learning new things in a friendly and open organisation then go for it.