Archive for category: Day in the Life
“Code is art,” a mentor once told me. Software engineering gives you immense creative freedom. And at Vanguard, teams have autonomy to choose how they want to build their systems and applications – from languages like Java, Typescript, and Python, to AWS Cloud features such as SageMaker, Aurora, and Lambda. You design, architect, and build infrastructure tailored to solve your problem. You fine tune the technologies with your code and make use of the conveniences and features. It’s impossible to be bored! As a senior application engineer, my enthusiasm stems from the capable and contemporary technology we use to deliver solutions for our business, which translates to value for our clients. A culture of engineering Engineering culture on a diverse team, like ours, brings great collaboration and new ways of overcoming challenges. We work in a high-energy environment with some of the aspects of a lean startup. Vanguard empowers engineers with the flexibility to pursue solutions while learning and experimenting at the same time. We’re also encouraged to explore internal tech opportunities, so you can rotate into the roles that interest you most. Working in the cloud Vanguard is modernizing legacy technology, migrating many applications to the public cloud. Particularly interesting are some of the AWS features used by my team, such as S3, SNS, SQS, Lambda, Step Functions, DynamoDB, ECS, Cloudformation, and Cloudwatch. Data encryption and security play major roles. Additionally, we design with high availability and disaster recovery in mind. You gain a sense of how meaningful the modernization goals are when an application can be retired, and the replacement performs better at a lower cost. So, at Vanguard, “code is art” is a reality. When I started working at Vanguard as a junior developer, I had no experience with many of the technologies which were being used for the project I joined. I felt a little intimidated. However, the other developers and technical lead on my team got me up-to-speed and set me up for success. From my earliest days to today, my motivation to learn and navigate Vanguard’s vast technological landscape continues to fuel my passion. Vanguard strives to be the best place to work in IT – and you can feel it. -Scott M.
Vanguard’s Innovative Benefits Support Your Well-Being Your Way
In this blog, we introduce Vanguard’s new FlexFund benefit. This forward-thinking offer first started in the tech industry, and Vanguard is one of the first financial institutions to adopt it.
Vanguard Dallas: Join Our Team of Advisors
In this blog, Luke H. shares what he is most excited about serving as a leader at our new Vanguard site in Dallas, Texas.
My Experience at Last Year’s Grace Hopper Conference
In this blog, Kimberly W. shares her experience attending the Grace Hopper Celebration in 2021.
In this blog, several crew open up about their experiences in changing careers and joining Vanguard’s Client Services and Operations group.
Join Vanguard’s Global Risk and Security Division
In this blog, Principal and Chief Information Security Officer, Manish Nagar, shares insights into the work GR&S is responsible for, his personal career experiences, and Vanguard’s new footprint in Dallas, Texas.
Vanguard encourages a cooperative culture by building teams of people with different backgrounds and experiences in technology and business. This diversity truly expands your knowledge base by encouraging multidimensional thinking and idea sharing – so we’re always learning from each other. The people who come from non-technical roles often lend creative solutions to the problems that had our technical team blocked. Sharing my technical knowledge with others is energizing and very fulfilling. For example, enabling business partners on the team to perform their own testing not only helps our efficiency, but lends to great comradery.
Making an Impact
As part of a product team, crew in technical roles can participate in all client-facing discussions. Offering ideas and hearing directly from our clients is rewarding as a developer. We get to see how the work we do makes a genuine impact on the clients we serve.
While developing a new feature, I sometimes find myself getting excited about an idea to improve the current design, so I will typically reach out via chat or even stop by our product owner’s desk for real-time feedback. I’ve gotten to build close relationships across Vanguard, that would not have been possible if I had been isolated from that part of the process.
I genuinely love coming to work and cannot imagine myself anywhere else. That’s due to the incredible teams I have been a part of, and Vanguard’s commitment to creating a collaborative environment for all crew – especially in the technology space!
— Laurel A.
Are you interested in Technology at Vanguard?
Hear directly from our tech crew here, and be sure to check out these opportunities.
Mission Oriented
But most of all, it was Vanguard’s mission: to take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success. That mission has been the same and has not changed my entire career.
It’s a mission you can feel. Vanguard is investor-owned, meaning the fund shareholders own the funds, which in turn own Vanguard. We strive to ensure our efforts will lead to better outcomes for our investors. We’re helping over 30 million investors around the world save for retirement, pursue education goals, and build a future for themselves and their families.
My Vanguard Why
Along the way, family and friends have asked why I’ve stayed at Vanguard for so long. My answer has been consistent: Vanguard’s commitment to our clients, crew, and community aligns to my values – which makes it easy to stay. It is only when our clients win that we win.
I currently lead one of the client experience and digital departments focused on helping clients manage their accounts. I’ve completed many rotations in IT, including as a frontend developer, technical lead, project manager, and systems manager, spanning multiple subdivisions within our IT division. Across all of these roles and departments, one truism is clear: Vanguard is focused on clients first. My current role serving our individual investors and advice clients through technology has helped me contribute to making the mission a reality.
Vanguard has always been the best place to work for me. The way in which Vanguard cares for their crew is clear – I’ve completed my master’s degree here, raised a family here, found opportunities to pursue growth here, and much more. And for every day of my 27 years, Vanguard’s mission has inspired me to continue learning, growing, and giving investors the best chance for investment success.
– Sonya D.
Are you interested in Technology at Vanguard?
Hear directly from our tech crew here, and be sure to check out these opportunities.
Why Vanguard?
Provide a brief introduction about yourself and why you chose Vanguard.
Jesus: I joined Vanguard in June of 2021 through the Advance to Financial Planning Associate Program (AFPA), after graduating from Grand Canyon University with a degree in Finance and Economics. I chose to work for Vanguard because of the investment philosophy that the company holds. Vanguard’s four principals for investment success: Goals, Balance, Cost and Discipline, represent a recipe for success that is realistic, replicable, and achievable for the broad population. As a Mexican American and first-generation college graduate, I feel compelled to share those principals with my community and begin to address financial illiteracy nationwide.
Drew: I joined Vanguard’s AFPA program in 2021 after graduating from Davidson College with an Economics degree. I chose Vanguard because their low-cost, long-term, indexing investment philosophy aligns with my core thoughts on financial markets, saving, and investing. I am grateful to work for an employer where honesty is valued, and to work with people who I know will do the right thing for all investors.
What initially interested you in the AFPA program, and an eventual career in advice?
Jesus: I’ve always been passionate about my personal financial journey, and a career in advice seemed like a logical next step. Throughout college I knew I wanted to be involved in other people’s financial journeys, but I lacked confidence and industry knowledge to begin working as an advisor at a local Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm. The AFPA program provided me with a steppingstone to become a successful planner. I was able to spend a year getting exposure to the industry and the various financial planning challenges that every day Americans face. This experience didn’t just prepare me for a career as a financial advisor, but it gave me immense confidence to use the skills I already had.
Drew: Vanguard was a company that I trusted with my own investments; therefore, a company I was eager to work for. My time in the program convinced me that a career in financial advice was an excellent path. I was grateful to learn how to be an advisor in a development program rather than jumping into selling products on commission.
Transition Period
What did it feel like to transition from college to corporate life?
Jesus: Transitioning into the corporate lifestyle was quite difficult for me at first. Especially as a first-generation student, I had negative preconceptions about American corporate life. During my time as a college student, I considered entrepreneurship as the only optimal path for success. Yet when I joined Vanguard’s community, I quickly realized that I was surrounded with like-minded individuals who shared similar aspirations. At Vanguard, I have access to half a century’s worth of information and real-life experiences that shaped the industry into what it is today. I network with professionals who have decades of financial planning experience. Most importantly I’m not alone, I have a clear leadership structure that aids and supports my development.
Drew: In college, you are handed opportunities to shine in the form of exams and papers. In the corporate world, those opportunities aren’t highlighted, but finding them and capitalizing on them will help you stand out. Finding success in corporate life requires discipline and self-motivation. There are opportunities to learn and make an impact, but you must seek them out. Don’t be afraid to ask your leader for time to work on projects you are passionate about.
What was your favorite part of the AFPA program?
Jesus: My favorite part of the AFPA program was being surrounded by like-minded peers. Having peers who are on the same professional track adds a unique level of collaboration that I found to be very constructive. I’ve made a lot of memories and friendships that I will be carrying with me for years to come.
Financial Advice
What did you learn throughout the development period – both in the Advisor Support Group (ASG) role and through development activities?
Drew: In the ASG role, I learned that a well-thought question is far more persuasive and valuable than a definitive statement. You’ll often work with clients who know very little about markets, but what they value more than your knowledge is your listening ear. Through the development activities, I learned the full depth of what an advisor provides clients. I learned that advice encompasses not only investments and goals, but long-term care planning, charitable giving, disciplined coaching, and an emotional connection.
Vanguard Careers
What advice do you have for candidates interested in AFPA?
Jesus: My biggest piece of advice to any AFPA candidate is to use your time in this program wisely. Begin visualizing the financial planning process. Understand the thought process and methodology that goes behind every transaction. By the time it’s your turn to put on the advisor hat, you’ll already have the confidence and base knowledge to work from.
Drew: Ask questions. Early in the program, I was too worried to admit I didn’t know something; however, the questions you have will likely be questions your peers and eventual clients have, too. If you ask questions early and often, you’ll quickly find success in the role.
Are you interested in our Advance to Financial Planning Associate program? View our opportunities today!
Leading an ultra-high net worth wealth management business and sponsoring the launch of a private investment product, all with an infant on my lap, was not how I pictured my career. Given my degrees in the arts, a career at an investment management company didn’t even seem in the realm of possibility. So, the idea of doing it all while holding my baby would never have occurred to me- outside of a random fantasy about living a functional version of Diane Keaton’s Baby Boom boardroom scenes.
Yet, my arts background has made me comfortable with and invigorated by ambiguity—I find joy in the strategy needed to launch a business solution—as it provides me with the opportunity to create. So, when I got the beautiful surprise of my first child shortly after I’d been given one of my biggest career opportunities leading a heavily investment-focused project, I was excited… and then I panicked about whether I could balance my new normal.
Thankfully conversations with my bosses and mentors helped me realize that I could be a good mom and keep my career going. I’m still amazed that amidst the biggest assignment of my career, I was able to take a fully paid four-month maternity leave and return to pick my work up right where I left off.
Now in my mid-forties, I often find myself cuddling my infant daughter (and at times feeding her puff baby snacks, thus the crunch as I sat down today) during work meetings about Vanguard’s Family Office Wealth Management business, Family Legacy Services, and Private Equity …and I love it. The quirky mix warms my heart. I’m forever grateful to work for an organization that never denied me career opportunities, even as I balanced the joyous shock of my dream-come-true life event of becoming a mother. Vanguard has never wavered on its commitment to help me learn and grow, and to present awesome career opportunities as I lean in.
As a working mom, who cares passionately about her career and utterly adores (and never wants to miss a moment of) her daughter, Vanguard is the place I want to be. A life of baby puffs and big presentations works for me.
— Talli H.
Tell me about yourself. How long have you been at Vanguard? What has your career journey looked like and what business area do you recruit for?
I’ve been a recruiter for many years and although the industries and opportunities have varied, the lasting relationships have been consistent. Like any relationship, they’re built on offering advice along with open and honest communication.
I was so fortunate to become a part of Vanguard’s “crew” in 2018! I work with Vanguard’s Retail Investor Group (RIG) and partner with our Personal Advisor Services (PAS) division. We hire mid- and senior-level CFP Financial Advisors who have a passion for providing Vanguard’s clients valuable guidance and solutions for achieving their financial goals.
How do you recommend candidates prepare for an interview at Vanguard and for the Financial Advisor role?
Do your homework. Advisory services vary from company to company, so don’t assume anything. Be sure you understand the company’s offering and whether it blends with your views and why you became an advisor. Remind yourself the reasons you want this position and to work for this organization, as well as how you’d like to present that throughout your interviews. Think about your relevant experience as well as what the position can offer you. Review the Linked In profiles of any leaders you’re scheduled to meet. There might be some commonalities that ease any concerns or could be used to build comradery as you go into an interview. A good recruiter will share prep information prior to an interview and if they don’t; ask them for it!
Further, bring some good energy and passion to the interview. Show your ability to think critically and conceptually as questions are asked and take a minute to gather your thoughts before answering. Bring depth to your responses, communicate how you’ve made an impact and remember to be concise; it’s a balancing act! Listen very closely to the questions so your answers are relevant and feel free to ask the interviewer to repeat the question if you didn’t understand it. Think about how you will articulate your valuable book management strategy, relationship management, and planning, and the impact it has made with your clients.
Why PAS at Vanguard?
Vanguard’s PAS Advisors are fiduciaries– they have a CFP designation and are aligned with Vanguard’s mission to provide our clients with the best chance for investment success. Advisors offer planning by way of asset allocation, tax optimization, investment guidance and advice, insurance planning, estate planning, retirement, and goals-based planning. Advisors will build and strengthen relationships and offer a wholistic planning approach. By being salaried employees, Vanguard’s Advisors have the opportunity to remove any conflict of interest by not being focused on product placement, and so, are aligned to be on the same side of the table with our clients.
What advice do you have for experienced candidates who are interested in a career change?
I always love speaking with candidates ready for a career change. There’s usually a lot of thought and passion behind the decision. If you are just starting that journey, I suggest heavily researching the entry into that field or position to fully understand what’s required and what it’s about. Your assumptions may change as you learn more about “a day in the life” of a particular role, along with the potential education and/or certifications required. Network with as many people in that field as you can and ask about the pros and cons of the role. Budget in personal time so you can consider taking a volunteer job to get that valuable thing called “experience”.
What additional resources can candidates reference to learn more about careers in this field at Vanguard?
Watch the Vanguard Advisors Career Overview video and read our crew testimonials. Take it a step further and connect with advisors on LinkedIn or request an exploratory call to learn more prior to submitting a formal application.
-Caroline Trimp, Financial Advisor Recruiter
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
In recognition of both International Women’s Day (IWD) and Women’s History Month, Vanguard’s Women’s Initiative for Leadership Success (WILS) hosted events and programs focusing on a bold theme: “Break the Bias.” The mission behind this year’s theme was to demystify and confront one major bias against women in corporate environments across all industries: the gap between women and men being perceived as strategic thinkers.
Through live speaker events, career progression programs, and company-wide discussions, crew engaged with each other across virtual platforms. Many also participated in a #BreakTheBias campaign by posting photos striking the IWD pose to show their commitment to calling out gender bias and stereotyping.
Lastly, WILS also took this opportunity to recognize and celebrate “women we admire” through a spotlight series. Take a moment to read the insights these crew members shared about their personal career experiences in being strategic thinkers and best practices for breaking gender biases.
Nitu G.
Product Architect in Europe
Nitu opens up about the importance of building a collective vision: “As architects, a lot of our work requires shaping the longer-term strategic architecture vision. For me, formulating a strategic vision can only happen when you take the time to talk to stakeholders and subject matter experts, and take a genuine interest in understanding what they do, what our clients do, and the challenges they face. It’s important to keep focused on understanding the bigger picture and uncovering the core challenges so that you can then collaboratively and strategically figure out what needs to be achieved. Collaboration is the key to shaping your own thinking and that of others. I always remind myself that having strategic vision is meaningless unless it can be driven forward. The best way to do that is for everyone to be part of the same journey and build the vision together.”
Danielle C.
Co-head of PAS High Net Worth Advice and Advice Support Group
Offering guidance to those interested in strengthening their strategic thinking skillset, Danielle shares, “Strategic thinking comes down to how you approach making decisions and considering trade-offs. A few tips: 1. Start with growing your experience working with data. Then, determine how to use data to tell a compelling story. 2. Frameworks, like hypothesis trees, are helpful to tell a story and show how you came to a decision. Read books and articles on decision-making and hang onto memos and presentations on the subject, as you never know when they will come in handy. 3. Think about altitude, time, and scope. 4. Finally, verbalize your thought process. Don’t keep all that great strategic thinking locked up inside your head! Communicate clearly and transparently to your peers, directs, and leaders. This helps bring your stakeholders along.
Ayana P-B.
Head of Emerging Talent and Diversity Recruiting Strategy
Touching on this year’s IWD theme, Ayana shares, “The “break” in break the bias implies interruption. To interrupt patterns of behavior takes humility, courage, and an openness to both learn and teach. For women on a path to develop strategic thinking and break the bias, I’d encourage you to speak up and shine your light to the fullest! Show your expertise, share your knowledge, actively listen, and dynamically engage. You can and will make an impact and add tremendous value by being your authentic self, not questioning your seat at the table, and showing up prepared to lean in.”
Michelle L.
Senior Portfolio Manager in Vanguard’s Investment Management Group
When speaking about women in investment management, Michelle says, “It’s no secret that investment management has long been a male-dominated profession. The first bias we need to break is that women can have and build successful careers in the investment management industry. As a representative of WILS for Vanguard’s Investment Management Group, a strategic area we continue to focus on is our outreach to young women and girls on careers in investment management, as societal biases start very early. It’s empowering to help young women and girls see opportunity in investment management among their bright futures, particularly where bias or lack of role modeling may have chartered a different path for them.
Linda A.
Head of Financial Planning and Analysis and Corporate Accounting in Australia
For women looking to become stronger strategic thinkers, Linda encourages, “Be proactive. Understand the business strategy, understand the challenges faced by your leader, peers, and crew within the organization. Apply a risk culture mindset, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to bring different perspectives and insights, and don’t be afraid to voice your ideas.”
What was your former job, and what did you like about it?
For a decade, I was a bartender and server at a country club. From there, I spent four years as a teacher and then pivoted to working in finance, helping public school employees set up their retirement plans. The common thread across these experiences is my affinity for engaging with people on a personal level and providing a service or assistance. – Michael W.
I served as Director of Operations at a small national frozen yogurt franchise. I really enjoyed developing store managers, making operational decisions, and leading at a broader scale. After having spent the previous six years as a store manager at a multinational coffeehouse chain, I valued learning a new industry and new skills as part of a small business team. – Anne Marie C.
What led you to make a career change and pursue an opportunity at Vanguard?
My role as a financial advisor at my prior firm did not offer the type of structure and guidance that helps me thrive. Vanguard is a company that provides reasonable flexibility and solid support. – Michael W.
After about a year, I found myself burned out always being on-call and really longing for a deeper connection to mission and vision. As I started looking for a new opportunity, I really had not considered the financial industry. Once a recruiter reached out from Vanguard’s temporary work force, I did some research and knew that Vanguard was the place for me. I would discover my path once I got my foot in the door. – Anne Marie C.
Can you talk a little bit about what it was like for you to make this move?
Vanguard is my first experience working in an office, which brought its own challenges and opportunities. The first several weeks were spent in a classroom style training on campus, which helped that transition tremendously. – Michael W.
At first, it was overwhelming. I did not have a background in finance and had very little knowledge of investing outside of contributing to my employer sponsored 401(k). Learning a new industry and essentially starting my career over was a big step for me, but I knew in my heart it was the right decision. I’m grateful for the relationships I made early on in my department. They have remained a critical part of my success today. – Anne Marie C.
What are some of the transferrable skills and experiences you’ve carried over from your former job to your current role?
Clear communication with colleagues and time management have helped, along with a desire to help others. Although I am no longer providing financial advice, familiarity with the field has been beneficial. – Michael W.
The skills and experiences I gained in the service industry and prior leadership roles were easily transferrable. Client relationship management, problem solving, and people development were three critical skills that I was able to leverage right away. – Anne Marie C.
How have things changed for you since coming to Vanguard?
I’ve experienced camaraderie and a consistently encouraging environment in the professional workspace. On a more personal note, my role with Vanguard provides a structured schedule, and that affords me the ability to dedicate my time and attention to interests outside of working hours as well. – Michael W.
Professionally and personally, I have thrived. My incredible leaders have given me room to develop, while also seeing my outside business experience as an asset. Because of this, I’ve been able to take advantage of amazing career development opportunities, including leading new teams and programs for my department. I found a company that lives out my personal values and, although the change has caused me stress at times, I know that l am where I am supposed to be. Moreover, I have been able to leverage the industry knowledge I have gleaned at Vanguard to make better financial decisions for my family, which is priceless. – Anne Marie C.
What would you say to someone who is currently considering a career change?
I feel confident telling friends, family, and others that I work for Vanguard. Though my current role is not client-facing, my work positively impacts clients on a daily basis as I support our business operations. More tangibly, Vanguard takes steps to support crew by encouraging career growth and providing excellent benefits. – Michael W.
Don’t count yourself out of opportunities. Find the company you want to work for and start somewhere. You might find yourself surprised at what lies ahead. – Anne Marie C.
Interested in a career in Client Services? Check out our Client Relationship Associate opportunities today!
Vanguard’s enhanced Total Rewards package
Vanguard’s Total Rewards Package provides benefits for the unique needs of each of our crew members. Over the past year, it has become even more evident that these needs are ever-changing and different for each person. We continue to offer expanded benefits to fit various definitions of family and work-life balance, and aim to provide crew with the tools, resources, and programs they need to operate at their full potential – in both work and life.
On National Coming Out Day, Shawn H. opend up about how coming out is not a once and done experience—It’s ongoing.
How Vanguard supports long-term career growth
Vanguard supports the long-term career growth of our crew through an internal mobility process, as well as mentorships and upskilling resources. In this blog, Chelsea M. shares insights into our offerings as well as feedback from key stakeholders who have benefited from them.
Jun Oh’s perspective: Vanguard’s MBA Development Program
Recruiting for MBA students is an extremely competitive landscape. Decisions are based on prior work experience and role compatibility, geographic variances, industry preferences, total compensation, benefits,
and more. So, what is it about Vanguard’s MBA Leadership Development Program that has both attracted and retained this high-potential talent? We took a deeper dive into this question and asked Vanguard crew members who participated in the MBA Leadership Development Program to recap their experience and share what initially attracted them to Vanguard and what keeps them feeling fulfilled in their roles. In this second installment of a three-part series, we highlight the experience of Jun Oh Y.
In this blog, Rebecca H. opens up about her journey to Vanguard and professional development opportunities she has received as a crew member.