Youth Month is an ideal time to recognise and celebrate the rising stars of tomorrow. Max Chin’s growth in the financial industry underscores the transformative power of the Prescient Graduate Programme, designed to nurture and accelerate young talent.
Joining the programme in 2020, Max quickly showcased his potential and drive, securing him a permanent position as a Fixed Income Trader at Prescient Securities. His story is a testament to the opportunities and comprehensive exposure gained through the uniqueness of this programme.
“The financial services industry is both challenging and rewarding. It offers numerous opportunities for growth and development while allowing you to develop technical skills and network with those who have years of experience,” says Max.
Max holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Management Studies from the University of Cape Town, complemented by his Registered Persons Exams (RPEs). His journey through Prescient began with rotations in various business units, providing him with a broad understanding of the financial services landscape – investment management, fund administration and stockbroking.
A keen interest in trading led Max to rotate to the business’s stockbroking arm, Prescient Securities, where he started as a Junior Trader on the Fixed Income/Bond desk.
His passion, dedication, and continuous pursuit of excellence saw him rise to the position of Fixed Income Trader. Today, Max is an integral part of Prescient Securities’ award-winning Bonds team, contributing to its performance and reputation.
Reflecting on his experience, Max emphasises the critical attributes for success in the financial industry. “We work in a dynamic and fast-paced industry where you have to be passionate about what you do and always be eager to learn. Having good communication skills, being detail-oriented, and open-minded has helped me thrive in this industry,” he says.
Max’s journey highlights the role of the Prescient Graduate Programme in shaping his career. “The programme offers exposure to all areas of the business, from investment management to fund services and stockbroking. This breadth of experience is crucial for finding where you fit best and what you enjoy most,” he explains.
One of the standout features of Prescient, according to Max, is the company’s culture. “There is a lot of opportunity here. If you perform well, you are rewarded. The open-door policy and flat structure mean you can approach anyone, including senior team members, for guidance and support. The Talent team drives a culture of inclusivity and continuous learning, making it a great environment to grow and succeed.”
Max also values the size and balance of the company. “Prescient strikes the perfect balance—not too large to become impersonal, yet not too small to lack resources. The culture here is supportive and collaborative, unlike the often siloed and impersonal environments of larger companies.”
Summing up his experience, Max states, “It’s been a positive experience for me. I have made excellent contacts at Prescient and in the industry, and it’s been a great start to my career.”
Max Chin’s success story is a powerful endorsement of the Prescient Graduate Programme. His journey from a graduate entrant to a key player in the Fixed Income team demonstrates the programme’s effectiveness in nurturing talent, providing diverse exposure, and fostering a supportive culture. For those with an open mind and a desire to learn, the Prescient Graduate Programme offers a pathway to significant career success in the financial services industry.
