#NoWrongPath Blog | Amanda Byrne

In a world where career paths often seem linear, our latest case study features an inspiring journey that defies expectations. Amanda Byrne, an Associate at BNP Paribas, whose initial aspirations lay far from the financial sector – in nursing, to be precise.

Amanda Byrne
Income Senior Associate
BNP Paribas

It was a pivotal Career Ready internship that unexpectedly ignited a passion for finance, revealing a hidden talent and a profound sense of belonging. Amanda’s unique trajectory, from an apprenticeship to navigating career shifts, and ultimately, achieving significant milestones at a young age within a dynamic industry. Join us as we explore the insights and experiences that shaped this remarkable career.

1.      What first sparked your interest in working in the financial sector, and how did that lead to the specific role you're in now?

I completed my Career Ready internship within financial service and before this I wanted to be a nurse. I never had the image of myself being an office worker, but the real spark came was when I done my internship. I found something I was good at and it was recognised, I felt like I belonged, and it completely changed my outlook on my career path. I can’t imagine myself not working within finance now, I love what I do!

2.      Can you describe the journey that brought you to your current role — and what made you choose that particular path (e.g., apprenticeship, degree, career switch)?

I was selected for Career Ready in my 5th year at school and After completing my internship, I went back to school but then left a few months later for an apprenticeship in accountancy, business and administration. Covid then hit and this made me realise I needed a new adventure.

After I got my qualification, I then went onto a role as a subcontractor administrator in the construction field. This was only a contract that then ended 10 months later but I still learned more in the admin sector and the world of work. Next, I went onto payroll as a payroll administrator, although I quickly realised, I was not cut out for dealing with the public! This is then when I contacted my mentor from 2019 asking If there was a job back at BNP Paribas. I managed to secure a role as an Analyst; I was over the moon to be back where it all started. Then after 2 years, I was promoted to Associate at age 22 – this was a massive achievement and milestone within my career so early on.

3.      Were there any key moments, mentors, or experiences that helped you realise this was the right fit for you?

The people at BNP Paribas, it makes it easier getting up in the morning knowing I work with amazing people in a great sector. My mentor was fantastic, she was so understanding, helpful and I managed to learn a lot from her, I am still super thankful to this day as without the programme, company and my mentor, I wouldn’t be in the role I am in today so early on in my career and managing to inspire people in the way I do.

4.      What aspects of your current role do you find most fulfilling, and did that align with what you expected when you started?

I work in a fast-paced environment, no day is ever the same and we all have a great time together while getting the work done. I think a lot of people have an image of an office as a bleak and boring place where everyone’s at their desks all day and that is the expectation I certainly had, but it is so far from it! I have had so much support within my career that’s allowed me to be confident and resilient in all the work I produce and I love how much networking I get to experience and learning new things about the different roles/sectors within the bank.

5.      Looking back, is there anything you would tell your younger self (or someone starting out) about finding a role in finance that truly fits them?

Go for it. What’s the worst that can happen? I did panic a lot while just starting out because I didn’t have a degree and what that meant for me within my career journey but honestly if I didn’t do my career the way I did, I wouldn’t be where I am just now. If you go into a role that doesn’t suit you, that’s ok! Just keeping going till you find it because you will! Experience of different things and trying things out is key, you never know until you try.

Amanda’s journey is a powerful testament to the fact that the most fulfilling career paths often emerge from unexpected turns and a willingness to explore. Their story underscores the transformative impact of mentorship, the importance of a supportive work environment, and the invaluable experience gained through diverse roles. By embracing opportunities like the Career Ready program and remaining resilient through career shifts, Amanda not only found a role that truly fits but also achieved significant professional growth at an early stage. Their advice to "Go for it" and to view every experience as a step towards finding your true calling resonates deeply, reminding us that passion and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements, regardless of the traditional route.

For more information about a career in finance visit: getinto.finance