Markets Media spoke with Michelle Hosea, Quantitative Strategist, Virtu Financial, who won Rising Star at the 2024 Women in Finance Asia Awards.
What is your reaction to winning the Award at the 2024 WIFAA Awards?
I was ecstatic, and quite frankly surprised, to hear that I would be winning the Rising Star Award. Making it to the shortlist alongside so many highly accomplished women was an honor in and of itself. It felt very encouraging to see my hard work and dedication being recognized, and also very humbling because I know that I would not be where I am today without the support of my friends, family, and colleagues.
Briefly describe your background and career to date.
I received a Bachelor’s in Applied and Computational Mathematics from the University of Southern California and a Master’s in Financial Engineering from Cornell University. During my time as a student, I completed internship programs in market risk, business intelligence, and private equity. After graduating, I joined Virtu Financial as an algo developer and have been there ever since.
What have been the main drivers of your success?
I would say one of the main drivers of my success is my perseverance. Whenever I hit a roadblock while trying to complete a task, I adopt the mindset that I can overcome it by working harder, attempting to approach the problem from a different angle, or asking for help when necessary. I’m glad to have encountered challenges that push me out of my comfort zone because each of those experiences has been a learning opportunity for growth.
What keeps you motivated?
My main motivation comes from a strong sense of ownership in the work that I do. It gives me great pride and satisfaction to deliver the best product that I can. I’m also very fortunate to work with so many collaborative, talented people who are equally passionate about their work. They inspire me to put my best foot forward every day.
Who have been the main influences in your career?
There are so many people who have helped me along my career journey, but one person who has had the biggest impact on me is my manager, James Osborne. He has supported and guided me from day one, and I feel very lucky to be a part of his team. He has not only taught me how to develop algos, but more importantly, he has shown me the kind of leader I want to be: someone who’s smart yet humble, kind but firm, and someone who inspires and encourages others to thrive.
What do you like about the world of finance/trading?
The world of finance and trading is constantly evolving; it’s like a never-ending puzzle. I’ve always been someone who enjoys problem-solving, and working in this field allows me to face new challenges every day. It forces me to think outside the box to solve complex problems and to keep improving and innovating.
What’s your favourite aspect of working at Virtu Financial?
My favorite aspect of working at Virtu Financial is the meritocratic, supportive team culture. I believe that good ideas can come from anywhere, and at Virtu, everybody has the opportunity to make a real impact. I also appreciate that my role doesn’t confine me into a box and that I’m able to wear multiple hats on the job.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
It’s hard to say for certain where I’ll be in five years because you never know what opportunities might come your way, but hopefully, as I gain more knowledge and experience, I’ll be able to make a bigger impact in the industry. I want to continue to learn and grow, not just in the next five years, but for the rest of my career.
©Markets Media Europe 2024
