Staying Ahead in a Rapidly Changing Financial Landscape

In today’s fast-evolving financial sector, professionals must continuously upskill to stay relevant. The rise of fintech, blockchain, and AI-driven investment platforms has reshaped wealth management, challenging traditional approaches.

For Felicia Tan, Executive Director at Bank of Singapore, continuous learning has been key to her career growth. She has always embraced education as a strategic tool to remain competitive and future-proof her expertise. This commitment has helped her rise as a transformative leader in the industry.

Advancing Leadership through Education

Before joining the Bank of Singapore and Deutsche Bank Wealth Management, Felicia was a Relationship Manager at Credit Suisse AG. Determined to elevate her career, she decided to pursue a Master of Science in Asset and Wealth Management (MAWM) at the Wealth Management Institute (WMI). “I never settle for the status quo,” she shares. Aspired to take on larger leadership responsibilities, the MAWM equipped her with advanced skills and industry insights that propelled her into an executive role.

Real-World Learning with Industry Experts

Felicia was drawn to the MAWM programme for its strong collaboration between Nanyang Business School (NBS) and the Wealth Management Institute (WMI). Offered by Nanyang Technological University (NTU), it combines academic rigour with practical industry knowledge. Led by experienced professionals, the curriculum prepares participants to navigate the complexities of modern finance.

“The investment in my education has been invaluable,” Felicia says. Engaging with faculty members who are top practitioners allowed her to apply fresh insights to real-world challenges, helping her develop effective strategies to manage market disruptions.

Expanding Networks and Career Horizons

Beyond academic knowledge, the MAWM programme offers a unique networking experience. Felicia studied alongside professionals from diverse financial backgrounds, including those in family offices, fund management, law, and accounting. These connections broadened her perspectives and deepened her understanding of industry dynamics.

“The programme not only expanded my network but also gave me the confidence to take bolder career steps,” she notes. Through these new professional relationships, she discovered opportunities that ultimately led her to her current role at Bank of Singapore.

Networking opportunities also extend beyond the classroom, with access to industry leaders at global financial firms such as Bridgewater Associates, JPMorgan, BlackRock, and Schroders. Exposure to top-tier institutions and market insights enables MAWM participants to refine their expertise and seize new career prospects.

Preparing for the Future of Finance

The financial sector is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and professionals must keep up with emerging trends to stay competitive. The MAWM programme equips participants with the latest methodologies, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.

“Incorporating subjects like fintech, data science, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and family office strategies, MAWM ensures its graduates are well-prepared for the challenges ahead,” Felicia highlights.

Her ability to integrate these insights into her work at Bank of Singapore has helped her drive innovation and deliver tangible results for her team.

A Mindset for Lifelong Learning and Leadership

Felicia’s career trajectory exemplifies the power of continuous learning. She believes in consistently acquiring new knowledge, expanding her network, and positioning herself as a thought leader.

The MAWM curriculum fosters this forward-thinking mindset by blending traditional wealth management topics with cutting-edge subjects such as data analytics and alternative investments. Participants also have the flexibility to choose from electives covering client relationship management, financial modelling, and business succession planning, allowing for personalised career development.

Felicia acknowledges that balancing full-time work with rigorous studies requires determination. However, she views this investment as essential for long-term success.

“In a competitive industry, you must stay ahead of the curve,” she advises. Her journey underscores the importance of strategic learning in building leadership capabilities and career resilience.

For professionals seeking to advance their careers in wealth management, Felicia’s experience is a testament to the transformative power of education. As she puts it, “That’s how you position yourself for success.”

Learn more about MAWM