October 9, 2023

The culture called me back: Making my return to Northern Trust

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Name: Cindy Villarama

Current Role: Consultant

Total time at Northern: 3 and a half years

Business Unit: Manila US Financial Reporting

Geographic Location: Manila, Philippines

About You and Your Career

Describe your current role at Northern Trust.

I am part of the Manila US Financial Reporting Team (USFR).

As a Consultant, I assist in various projects involving process improvements and pursuit for cost efficiencies. In the USFR team, we prepare financial statements of various funds. On the production side, I act as a subject matter expert and one of the lead reviewers on various client engagements.

Take us through how you ended up at Northern Trust the first time. What brought you to Northern Trust?

I was working as a Financial Management and Budget Specialist in another company. As a young professional, I realized I was not getting the learnings and growth opportunities I needed for my career. I owned my growth and took the US Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam. But that did not satisfy my pursuit for growth since I was not getting the support and mentorship I needed from the company itself.

Two of my classmates from my US CMA review asked me if I wanted to join Northern Trust. I applied and got in as a Technical Coordinator under Manila Oregon Financial Reporting.

It was a pioneer team and we were a relatively big batch of new joiners back then. The new joiner’s program we were enrolled in was what I would say was the best new joiner’s program I’ve got in my career so far. And it’s because of the people I’m with.

Then the global pandemic came and my previous employer offered me a great opportunity, a Finance head role for a newly acquired subsidiary in my hometown. The package was something very hard to say no to and I duly accepted.

However, it didn’t take me long to realize that it’s not all about money! It’s about the culture where you want to grow and work day in day out. It’s about the people you want to work with, it’s about the environment where it feels truly like home. And I’m so thankful Northern Trust gave me an opportunity to come back.

What has surprised you since rejoining Northern?

I’m surprised of the growth of the Manila Office. It is great to see and witness!

What are you most proud of in your career at Northern Trust so far?

I am proud that I am part of a team who cares about the development and well-being of everyone.

When did you realize that Northern Trust was a good fit for your career?

I realized it after my stay in my previous company. The culture in Northern Trust is the culture I want to grow in and be a part of. The environment in Northern Trust is very different to other places I have worked. The professionalism of all staff is very different. I believe that if I wanted to grow, I have to surround myself with people who uphold service, integrity and excellence. That is exactly what people do at Northern Trust.

What technology/technologies have you been excited to work with here at Northern Trust?

Currently, we are using DFIN ARC for our financial statement preparation tasks. Our home location in Chicago also uses Alteryx for some of the tasks. If given a chance, it would be a pleasure to be able to try and explore that tool too in the future.

How has Northern Trust supported your career objectives / development?

Aside from the regular monthly catch ups with my manager and Northern Trust University courses, I am also privileged that Northern Trust also gives me an opportunity to enrol in one of IOB’s program which is the Professional Certificate in International Investment Funds and also within the Udemy platform.

What has surprised you most about life at Northern Trust?

This goes back to the people and the company culture. Comparing with the colleagues I’ve been with from other companies, the people at Northern Trust are different, in a good way! They are collaborative, kind, approachable and find joy amidst the busyness of day to day tasks and peak work cycles.

What would you say to someone considering a career at Northern Trust? 

If you’re looking for a place with a positive work environment, a place that nurtures and invests in one’s growth, and a place that listens and cares, then Northern Trust is the place to be.

What advice would you give to people who are just beginning their career at Northern Trust?

You don’t have to take the whole weight of the tasks you’re assigned to, especially being new to the process. The people are very approachable and collaborative, at all levels, and are willing to help. The experience won’t always be 100% smooth sailing especially during peak cycles so celebrate small wins and learn from the challenges.

Do you have any other career tips you would give to candidates interested in working for Northern Trust?

People have various definitions of career success. Just go for the things that make you fulfilled and happy and make sure to put your hand up and ask for opportunities.

Fast Facts

Hometown / where are you living now – Angat Bulacan

Do you have a pet(s)? – love my two birds, snow and rainbow

What are you reading / Podcast recommendation – I’m reading mostly children books nowadays for my daughter!

Comfort food – ice cream

Best advice you’ve received (work or non-work related) – Embrace progress over perfection

Careers at Northern Trust

Come find your greater at Northern Trust. Review our open roles here.