My first three months as a Commercial Analyst at TotallyMoney
By Lewis Momen, Commercial Analyst
Dec 13th 2021Having spent 2 years completing a graduate scheme at a FTSE 100 listed company, I felt it was time for a new challenge. I was searching for an agile startup culture where I could take on greater responsibility, sharpen my skills, and gain more exposure to business strategy.
My search led me to the Commercial Analyst role at TotallyMoney. Instantly, I was drawn to their mission, “to help everyone move their finances forward”. The belief that people should be in control of their own data, and that it should work for them, not against them, really resonated with me.
During the interview process I visited the wonderful Old Street office and met several members of the team. It was clear that I would be able to use my analytical skills to drive strategy, while being empowered to work collaboratively with smart and ambitious colleagues to drive the company forward. Not only that but TotallyMoney’s flat-hierarchical structure would afford me the opportunity to grow and develop my skills.
Three months in and I’m really happy to have made the move. Here’s four key themes that have jumped out at me in the short time I’ve been here.
You’re responsible
In a short time, I've already taken on a number of responsibilities, and I’m working closely with the commercial managers to analyse a wide range of datasets. This means that I’ve been able to pick things up really quickly and feel that I’m already developing a good understanding of the market. As a result I’ve been able to spot potential commercial growth opportunities, which I’ve shared with the wider business.
Being given ownership of a number of projects means my work is very visible and although I’m new to the team, I’ve been given a great deal of autonomy — which I love.
It’s fast
Working with agility is crucial. This allows us to move quickly and pivot when needed. In the commercial team, we’re always working across several projects at once, so prioritisation is key to success.
We’re constantly conducting analysis and obtaining updates from partners. It's important to be able to adapt, make data-driven decisions, and communicate these to not just the wider team but often the rest of the business.
You’re supported
Continuous learning is highly valued at TotallyMoney. If you want to sharpen your skills in a particular area, you’ll be encouraged and supported.
As I joined TotallyMoney from a different sector, I felt I could benefit from greater exposure to the financial services industry. I mentioned this to the team and was encouraged to attend two events where I was able to engage with industry experts, meet prospective partners, and learn about current market trends.
Retrospective sessions are also widely adopted across the company — we do this often and in a timely fashion, embedding TotallyMoney's culture of continuous improvement into our day-to-day work.
It's social
Everyone at TotallyMoney understands and respects the importance of a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in the monthly 'book club and pub', fortnightly Catan competition or the weekly football matches, there is definitely something for you to get involved in!
Plus, with after work drinks, quarterly team socials, and twice-yearly company events, there’s always an opportunity to meet and socialise with people from all across the business.
From left to right: Charlie, Miranda, Atlas the dog, Qin and Lewis