Many of our employees launch their careers in Client Services, as it provides them an opportunity to see and experience first-hand Vanguard’s unique business model, and how our clients are at the center of everything we do. We recently sat down with crew members who have served in our Client Services and Operations group to learn more about what initially attracted them to Vanguard and what keeps them feeling fulfilled in their roles. In this first installment of a three-part series, we highlight the experience of Don B.

Tell us about your voyage to Vanguard.

When December came around during my senior year of college, things were looking bleak on the job front due to the global pandemic. However, before graduating with a major in Finance and Real Estate from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, I was fortunate enough to come across Vanguard and one of their recruiters. Vanguard had everything that I was looking for in a job: quality work life, an outstanding reputation, and a company that takes care of its employees. My recruiter was helpful throughout the entire interview process and I was ecstatic to receive an offer.

Why did you choose to launch your career in Client Services?

I chose to go into Client Services as it aligns perfectly with my career goals. Even when I was a young kid, I had a passion for investing — I opened a custodial account on my 15th birthday! — and I believe that everyone should have a chance to invest for their future. The Client Services and Operations group allows me to connect with our clients and help them achieve their goals, whether that be saving up for retirement, financial freedom, or creating generational wealth for their kids. I’ve worked all my life in the service field, from restaurants to grocery stores, and when Vanguard gave me the opportunity to continue to work with clients in an industry that I love and am passionate about, I was more than ready to get right to work!

What have been the most rewarding aspects of your role?

I would have to say the most rewarding aspects of my role have been how supportive Vanguard is of their crew, whether that be those launching their careers or others being promoted to a new opportunity. For example, I’m currently going through my licensing training. Vanguard has assigned several trainers to my class to help us pass our exams, which has been invaluable. The daily lectures help us better understand the topics and enable each of us to ask questions on the materials.

How has Vanguard supported your professional development?

While I’ve only been a crew member for three months, Vanguard has done everything from providing organized dashboards to personalizing the licensing process to aid new hires with their development. Even in a short time, I can already tell that Vanguard cares about their clients, but it’s also evident how they care for their employees, empowering them to succeed and giving them all the tools necessary to do so. I have set goals for myself to achieve and look forward to exploring the numerous opportunities and career paths that will be available to me. Even more, I trust that Vanguard will continue to support my professional growth every step of the way.

Interested in a career in Client Services? Check out our Client Relationship Associate opportunities today!

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Family comes first

Kristen shares a personal story about how Vanguard allowed her to focus on family during a difficult time. “While my personal life was turned on its head, a new leader was assigned to my team. I was experiencing changes both at Vanguard and in my personal life. My first one-on-one was conducted through video conference from my parent’s house. It was during that conversation I finally said the words out loud…my mom had cancer. Not knowing how my new leader would respond, I waited. He took a moment and said, “Family comes first,” a concept I heard Vanguard was known for but never experienced firsthand.”

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