Nic Badings
Aya Hassan – Accelerate Team
Prior to joining Pemba, Aya spent four years with PwC as a Manager in their Mergers and Acquisitions team, specialising in middle-market advisory across a range of sectors. Aya also spent two years as a Lawyer at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission in their Markets Enforcement team.
What attracted you to the Financial Services industry more broadly, and now into Private Equity?
Having worked on transactions as an advisor, I was to keen to gain further exposure to the whole investment lifecycle and what happens after a transaction as well as assist companies to grow and reach their potential. Private Equity enables me to do this on a day-to-day basis, which motivated my decision to make the move.
If you didn’t work in Finance, what else could you see yourself doing?
I would be working for a luxury fashion e-commerce player in a business / strategy function, as it combines my interests in fashion, technology and business.
Once all borders are open again, what would be your dream holiday?
I have definitely missed European summers and so I would definitely travel to Southern Europe, particularly the Greek Islands or St Tropez.
What keeps you busy away from work?
I love spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants and bars (I’m a foodie!) and travelling.
What advice could you give to someone finishing University who are looking to enter the industry?
Demonstrating your interest is a key differentiator; whether it be knowledge of sector trends, companies operating within industries of interest or extra-curricular activities. Leveraging relationships across your network is also a great way to meet people and gain a better understanding of the role, which at times, can also lead to opportunities in the future.
Aya’s book recommendation:
Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
