Dimple, Vice President, Investment Management Operations
Dimple has spent a decade at Morgan Stanley's Mumbai office, and she has no plans to leave anytime soon. The Firm's culture, career opportunities and talent keep her in place. But that's not to say she's standing still. Dimple, a Vice President in Investment Management Operations who holds an undergraduate degree in finance from Mumbai University, earned her master's degree online while working full-time.
Why did you choose Morgan Stanley to start your career?
I had just graduated from college and a friend of mine who was working at Morgan Stanley recommended that I check out the Firm. He said the culture was good and that the people were very nice and very smart. I interviewed and joined as a consultant. I was offered a full-time position within four months.
What's a typical day like for you?
I work in portfolio services for Investment Management Operations. It's very fast-paced. Planning is important because we have a lot to do and need to prioritize the day. First, we do a morning huddle and plan for the things we know are happening. The rest of our day is managing ad-hoc work from clients. We'll also do a midday huddle, and then a huddle at the end of the day. Teamwork is very important. We depend on each other a lot. If someone is burdened with work, we'll share the responsibility. This is how we share ideas. It gives us an opportunity to ask questions and work together to solve problems.
Why did you decide to stay at Morgan Stanley for a decade?
People ask me that question all the time. Of course, 10 years is a long time to stay somewhere, but I love what I do. Every day when I get up in the morning and go to work, I feel motivated. There's something about Morgan Stanley's culture and values that feel right to me—putting clients first, doing the right thing and giving back to the community. I traveled to London once for work and saw it was no different. The people were great, and management was engaged. The culture is the same, no matter where you go. Morgan Stanley was also supportive when I decided I wanted to earn my graduate degree. I didn't want to leave the Firm, and they made it possible for me to get my degree while I was still working. I have been here for 10 years, but I see myself staying even longer.
Can you tell us about your biggest accomplishment?
In 2012, Investment Management changed its fixed income platform. I raised my hand because I wanted to be part of the new setup. I had to work from scratch to set up and define the process. I trained new members of the team and got them up to speed. Eventually, I was managing work across the globe under the guidance of my manager. People had faith in me that I could take the project forward. It boosted my confidence and helped me shape my career.
Have you had any mentors?
I've had formal mentors who were assigned to me; we met once a month. I've also had informal mentors who met with me on an ad-hoc basis. They were immensely helpful. All of them have been in the industry for quite some time and have seen how it works. I think experience is extremely valuable. Finding a mentor who understands you and who you can learn from is really helpful. I also have two mentees. It's my responsibility at my stage in my career to pass on what I've learned from my managers and my mentors to rising employees. It's all part of giving back.
What's it like being a woman in finance?
My experiences have been very good. Morgan Stanley is all about having men and women having equal opportunities. The Firm does a lot to shape, help and guide female employees. We are very diverse.
