Q&A with Jo-Anne Bloch on her role to lead global Innovation Hub in NY
Jo-Anne Bloch, Mercer's financial advice business leader has been appointed to lead one of Mercer's new global Innovation Hubs, which will see her relocate to New York for 12 months. Read what she's most looking forward to in the role - "I love a challenge!"
Jo-Anne Bloch, Mercer's financial advice business leader has been appointed to lead one of Mercer's new global Innovation Hubs, which will see her relocate to New York for 12 months. Read what she's most looking forward to in the role - "I love a challenge!"
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
I am most looking forward to working in New York, experiencing a completely new environment and a completely new role. I love a challenge!
What skill do you think is paramount in working in the financial services industry?
Working in financial services requires some technical capacity or specialist skill combined with a clear purpose which has to include helping people with their finances. you're dealing with someone else's money after all. Add to that great communication and a love of networking! You also need to avoid burning bridges because this industry is small and close knit. work hard, attend lots of conferences, appreciate regulation and change, and find time to enjoy what you do because it can be all consuming. I'd say this applies universally.
If you could give advice to someone starting out in the industry what would it be?
Make sure you get involved in industry bodies or associations or community ventures so you learn, network and give your time to develop the industry or community you're in. You need to give before you can take and our industry has great opportunities to facilitate that.
Would you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert? And why?
I'm a borderline introvert/extrovert according to Myers Briggs. I prefer being in a room full of people that I know rather than a room full of unfamiliar faces. I do love the ASFA Conference for the annual catch up with everyone. I've made so many wonderful friends in this industry over the years.
What was your very first job?
I was a graduate trainee with Hewlett-Packard.
Do you have a secret skill/hidden talent?
I have no hidden skills or talents - what you see is what you get!
