Originally from Belfast, Conor now lives just outside Randalstown in Moneynick with his wife and two young children. For years, Conor juggled his work and family commitments with part-time study at Northern Regional College but says it was all well worth the effort as it helped pave the way for his current position with Cowen.
Conor completed a HNC in Business Studies between 2012-2014 while working with the Hilfiger brand in the retail sector. With the HNC under his belt, he secured a job as an Operations Analyst with Citibank and went back to Northern Regional College as a part-time student to do an honours degree in Business Studies. After two years with Citibank, in October 2017, he moved to his present position as Middle Office Analyst with Cowen in their Belfast office.
Conor admits that the juggling act was challenging at times but says it helped that he was studying something he was really passionate about.
“While I wouldn’t be academically inclined, I was always fascinated about how the financial services industry works and because I’d a real thirst for knowledge, I enjoyed learning all about it.
Conor adds that his experience is proof that if you want to learn and work hard, you can achieve your dream job.
“I feel really fortunate to have landed a job with such a progressive company like Cowen. Every day is different and there are plenty of opportunities for career progression and travelling.”
Gerry Drake, one of Conor’s Business lecturers recalls Conor’s ‘enthusiasm and interest’ in the securities and investments industry. He says it was a testament to Conor’s commitment and hard work in his studies that he is now pursuing his dream career.
He continues: “At Northern Regional College we are continuously improving the information and advice about courses to ensure that all our students have every opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills needed to further their professional development or to retrain for the ever changing business environment.”
Photo Credit: Libby Greene/Nasdaq, Inc.
