PHBS-UK Campus has launched its new "Alumni Talks" series, designed to strengthen ties between graduates and current students while supporting career exploration. The inaugural session featured Ying Jieru, an accomplished finance professional with extensive cross-cultural experience, who shared her career journey and insights with the 2025 cohort at the UK Campus. The talk was moderated by Han Bing, Deputy Director of PHBS-UK. The "Alumni Talks" series aims to become a lasting platform for experience sharing and mentorship—connecting past learning with future aspirations.
From Dual Degrees to a "Beginner's Mindset"
Ying began by reflecting on her decision to pursue a dual degree in Economics and Philosophy at Guanghua School of Management at Peking University. She described this choice as a pursuit of "cognitive balance"—combining rigorous finance training with a passion for critical thinking and classical reading. She emphasized that her philosophical studies helped her maintain clarity and composure under pressure.
When discussing her subsequent Master's in Management at London Business School, she highlighted the importance of adopting a "beginner's mindset." Even top graduates from leading Chinese universities, she noted, must start from scratch when adapting to a new educational and professional culture in the UK.
"Learn by Doing": Testing Interests through Real Experience
A key theme of her advice was the value of hands-on experimentation. During her years as an undergraduate, Ying completed internships across a range of sectors—from retail banking to consulting and real estate private equity. These experiences, she explained, helped her move beyond abstract career ideas and identify her true interests and strengths.
Her full-time roles have spanned multiple institutions and countries. She began in the fast-paced trading environment of HSBC China's Global Markets Division, later moving to the Bank of China London Branch, where she shifted into financial institutions coverage. Most recently, as a Relationship Director at Barclays Investment Bank, she led cross-regional teams and managed complex "coopetition" deals between major institutions.
"Every attempt gives you an answer," she noted. "The knowledge and connections you build along the way will always prove valuable at some point in your journey."
A Systemic View of Banking Careers
For students interested in banking, Ying encouraged developing a "systemic view" of the industry. Understanding the basic building blocks of a bank—from retail and corporate banking to trading, investment, and digital banking—is essential. Each business line has its own growth trajectory, pace, and skillsets. A clear "career map," she argued, is vital for roles that require coordination across divisions and institutions.
Bringing Classroom Tools into the Workplace
When asked whether academic knowledge is applicable in real work, Ying noted: "Yes, very much so—but only if you know how to use it." She cited the course Financial Markets and Financial Institutions as one she frequently applies, helping her grasp industry logic and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.
For students with "math anxiety," she advised focusing on strengths and finding the right fit. While quantitative roles suit those strong in math, sales, relationship management, and client coverage offer rewarding paths for those with strong interpersonal and strategic skills. She also stressed the universal importance of financial accounting: "Accounting isn't advanced math—it's business literacy. Understanding financial statements is a foundational skill for any manager or finance professional."
Breaking into UK Finance: Network, Brand, and Portfolio
Ying highlighted three essential elements for entering the UK financial sector: networking, personal branding, and a strong portfolio. She encouraged students to actively use alumni networks, attend industry events, and participate in coffee chats to build meaningful connections. At the same time, she encouraged maintaining a professional LinkedIn profile and English CV. In addition, she advised students to develop a "career portfolio" through course projects, internships, shadowing experiences, or research reports.
On cultural differences, she noted that Chinese institutions often explained execution speed, while British and European firms value process, fairness, and work-life balance. Succeeding in global roles, she added, requires distinguishing between job demands and managerial pressure—and establishing a sustainable work style with one's team.
From Inspiration to Action
During the Q&A session, students from diverse backgrounds raised questions on topics ranging from "entering banking without prior connections" to "building a support network abroad." Ying, who also serves as Chairperson of the Peking University Alumni Association in the UK (PKUAA-UK), expressed her hope to deepen collaboration with PHBS-UK in the future, helping to build more bridges between campus and industry.
Profile
Ying Jieru currently serves as the Chairperson of PKUAA-UK. She graduated from Guanghua School of Management at Peking University in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Philosophy. In 2011, she completed her master’s degree in Management at London Business School. She has previously worked at Global Markets Department of HSBC Bank (China), Group Treasury Department of Nationwide Building Society, and Financial Institutions Department of Bank of China London Branch, and most recently working at Barclays Investment Bank as FIG Relationship Director.
By Han Bing
Translated by Annie Jin
