Nicola La Rocca, Relationship Manager HNWI, UBS

To help current students and recent graduates navigate the world of work, several USI Alumni shared their career paths and career story. Here the story of Nicola La Rocca, Relationship Manager HNWI in UBS in Zurich (CH). USI Degree: Master in Financial Communication, 2023.

How did you start your career?

I started my career as Platform Manager Intern in Credit Suisse. This allowed me to practice three important skills/tools: attention to details, deliver on time, Microsoft Office (Power Point & Excel).

Why did you choose a career at UBS?

I choose to work for Credit Suisse, now UBS, because they are a great example of Swiss Banking. In such big and prestigious bank you can learn a lot of things and being responsible from Day 1 for many different tasks.

What is your current role/duties?

I choose to work for Credit Suisse, now UBS, because they are a great example of Swiss Banking. In such big and prestigious bank you can learn a lot of things and being responsible from Day 1 for many different tasks.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at UBS?

The quality needed to scale the ladder of a big banks are: - Positive attitude in the work environment: stressful tasks and deadlines will always be there, a real professional keep it cool with himself and colleagues. - Attention to details, willingness to learn everyday something new: curiosity and enthusiasm are key to maintain an excellent standard of the working output - Networking: create your own personal network in the banks is key. Doing the extra mile in every task and performing few extra projects are good ways to create a broad and positive network in the bank.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

In USI I was able to have a real professional relationship with my Professors and in general with all the employees of USI. At USI you fell that you are valuable person, not a just number like in many other universities. The Campus is also amazing, with a wonderful river and city center at 10 minutes from the main building.

What competences and/or skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

USI helped me to elevate the standards of my professional outputs (presentations, assignment) and I also learnt how to better manage professional relationship with different stakeholders thanks to the many activities done on Campus. For example I was once elected as Academic Senator for the Economics Faculty.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Looking for a job is a job. Ask for help to the Careers Service USI, they very well prepared and they can help you with preparing your CV. You will also need to practice how to answer basic questions about you in a professional and smooth way. Once ready, reach out to your network and target first companies where you have a direct connections. This will result to you much easier with a strong online presence (LinkedIn) so start building it.