Operations Summer Analyst Review

I was in Lender Service Group FAILS team. They act as a trade support involved with matching securities lending trades. This involved matching trades prior to their trade date, as well as dealing with issues on the trade date. For example, if a counterparty has not instructed a trade on their side in the market, then the trade will be unmatched and drive up Morgan Stanley's FAIL rates.

I have developed my analytical and problem-solving skills as you need to analyse why a trade has failed in order to reconcile this. Through this, I have enhanced my excel skills as we use this on a daily basis. Also enhanced my communication and interpersonal skills working within a close-knit team through hybrid working. Lastly, my time management skills as the deal is focused on daily reporting so it is fast-paced environment.

I had 2 main projects which were more long-term as well as helping the team with day-to-day tasks. One main project was structured around my wider operations team so allowed me to gain an understanding of different teams within Morgan Stanley. It was also expected for you to be proactive and shadow other teams if you were interested, and ample time was made available for this.

Throughout the internship you have a manager and a buddy to refer to if you need any help. I was fortunate that my team were always willing to help and teach me information so the support and guidance was always made available. There was plenty of networking opportunities to speak to graduates who were also helpful as they experienced similar things.

The culture is very inclusive and friendly. There are lots of events and networks to get involved in too.

I enjoyed the opportunity to learn about operations within a financial institution. The 13-week duration not only allowed me to gain a broader understanding of operations, but also gain an insight into the intricacies and processes within the team. I was able to get involved in non-work events through the programme series put on by HR which was a great way to understand other parts of Morgan Stanley and network with the interns.

Yes

Thoroughly research Morgan Stanley's values to see if they align to your values. Go in with an open-mind, you are not expected to understand operations and the sheer vastness of it makes this very difficult. But willingness to learn and get involved will allow you to make the best out of the opportunities they offer. Also network before, during and after - everyone is so friendly and can offer advice.