(Biology BSc, 2019; Corporate Finance MSc, 2020)
During my first degree I started an internship with an international investment group that focused on renewable energy investments. As I was exposed to the importance of funding for these green projects, I became enamoured with the financial side of our work. I knew that the School of Economics and Finance at Queen Mary was held in high esteem and would be able to support my academic growth in Corporate Finance.
Why did you choose to study BSc Biology and then MSc Corporate Finance at Queen Mary? On the surface there isn’t an obvious connection between the two degrees so what prompted this transition?
Originally when I was applying for my undergraduate, I had two main loves - biology and mathematics. I found myself envisioning a future as a researcher in Biological sciences, especially after I realised I could also focus on statistical analysis with coding languages such as R. During my first degree I started an internship with an international investment group that focused on renewable energy investments. As I was exposed to the importance of funding for these green projects, I became enamoured with the financial side of our work. It became abundantly clear to me that I could contribute to the promotion of green solutions if I had a strong financial understanding of Corporate Finance. I looked at the current global view of green solutions critically - while it would be great if everyone prioritised the environment, it will never be achieved unless there is an opportunity for widespread profit in a green society. I knew that the School of Economics and Finance at Queen Mary was held in high esteem and would be able to support my academic growth in Corporate Finance.
Which modules did you most enjoy and did any academics have a strong influence on shaping your time and studies here?
I adored my Evolutionary Genetics and Parasitic & Infectious Diseases modules. I also had the opportunity to study in several international research stations across Europe and Africa with Queen Mary. In my MSc Corporate Finance, my favourite modules would have to be Mergers & Acquisitions and Quantitative Finance. They gave me a perfect blend of combining negotiation, quantitative and logical reasoning. Throughout both degrees I developed a love for coding in languages like R and python that I am still studying to this day. I must give a big shout out to my professors in both degrees for how they inspired myself and others - they truly share their love for their subjects with the students.
My best memories are a mix of achievements, such as handing in my two dissertations, founding the Zoological Society at Queen Mary with my friends, and of course getting to live in London with all of its excitement.
Do any special memories stand out from your student days?
The best memories are a mix of achievements, such as handing in my two dissertations, founding the Zoological Society at Queen Mary with my friends, and of course getting to live in London with all of its excitement. The plethora of societies that were available were also wonderful - in particular I loved the Kendo, Trading & Investment and Archery societies. Honestly, I wish I could have found time for more!
Tell us about your current role as Accountant Partnership Manager at Reducer. What attracted you to this company and what do you enjoy most about this job?
Funnily enough, I actually applied to Reducer as an analyst. My work until then had included researching and negotiating with international investment opportunities, company valuations and organising green finance conferences in Asia. As I continued my coding, I felt drawn towards Financial Technology, and when I looked into cloud technology innovations Reducer appeared. During my interview I was pulled aside and offered the opportunity to either continue as an analyst or be trained for the sales team. I realised this was a great opportunity to learn an entirely new skill set.
At Reducer I have had the opportunity to work with the top accounting firms in the United Kingdom, as well as several international ones. My favourite aspect is being able to connect with so many diverse firms and their directors; each has a unique vision for their clients which requires an equally unique working relationship. My role is to support partnerships with stakeholders and guide the application of cloud technology at accountancy firms with softwares such as Xero and Quickbooks. As an application for both softwares, Reducer is the leading connecting purchasing solution for smarter purchasing decisions.
How are your degrees relevant to this job? Are there any areas of your degrees that you use in your day-to-day job?
I would have to say that both degrees are extremely relevant for my professional life. Universal presentation, communication and leadership skills are vital for my role, and stemmed from my study projects from university. My work at Reducer requires me to maintain expert knowledge of the utilities markets including green energy, as well as of financial markets. I believe it is important to note that even if a skill one learns in university is not in personal use in one’s career, it can still aid you in understanding your colleagues’ work. I value my experience as an analyst and in coding because it allows me to understand my colleagues' work in the Operations and Technology teams.
What are your career plans for the future?
It’s a family tradition of mine to start a business. My parents had multiple together in Asia. My mother ran at least 5 until she was ordained as a Buddhist priest, while my father continued as the CEO of his investment group in Japan. My brother and I are currently looking to promote the beauty of tea that is grown in our mother's country, Sri Lanka. I would also like to pursue my current profession in the financial technology industry and cloud accounting.
As well as your day job, in 2019 you founded an international charitable organisation called Singing For Sri Lanka. What motivated you to establish this company and what have you achieved since its conception?
It stemmed from the 2019 Easter terrorist attack on Sri Lanka. Being my mother’s land, I absolutely considered it my duty to provide aid to those affected, especially children who were in the affected communities. Initially, myself and my brother organised several musical fundraisers to raise donations for these children. Our largest concert was broadcasted on National TV and Radio in Sri Lanka. Over time, our focus shifted to more sustainable and long-term solutions. We partnered with the Sri Padmasambhava Temple in England and the Young Men's Buddhist Association in Sri Lanka to find gifted children who were unable to engage in their education due to their financial backgrounds. We focus on securing long term funding for these children, to support them until they are adults and have found full time employment. Our ultimate aim is that through education, these children will be able to leave the cycle of poverty. Currently, I am launching a project to arrange educational lectures and career talks for these children.
I would advise prospective students to not be shy about reaching out to members of Queen Mary and other alumni with questions. Ultimately, it’s the people who make a university, from the administrative and residential staff to the lecturers and students.
What advice would you give to a prospective student considering studying BSc Biology or MSc Corporate Finance at Queen Mary?
If possible, I would strongly recommend attending Open Days for Queen Mary. Being able to experience the campus where you will potentially be living and learning is vital. I would also advise prospective students to not be shy about reaching out to members of Queen Mary and other alumni with questions. Ultimately, it’s the people who make a university, from the administrative and residential staff to the lecturers and students. I would recommend sending a LinkedIn message for example.
You recently attended the physical graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2020 and 2021 (which were originally delayed by Covid), what did you love most about your big day?
I think everyone these past two years can now pinpoint the difference between physical and virtual events, whether that be with work, friends or family. I personally work on a hybrid model that I am happy with, however, some experiences are further enriched when face to face. The physical graduation ceremony gave me a chance to see my best friends from my Masters for the first time in two years. I was able to walk across the stage in front of my family and professors and be surrounded by the energy of other alumni thriving as well.
Finally, outside of work, what do you do in your spare time? Is there anything people find surprising or admiring about you?
I am most proud of being a professional Opera singer and having achieved a musical diploma in Classical Singing. Opera has always been a shared love with my father. Since he passed away in 2021, opera has been my meditation to remember him.
People may be surprised by my love of video games and anime. My favourite games are Skyrim and Assassin's Creed, which inspired me to start my own collection of antique swords and weaponry.
If you would like to get in touch with Judy or engage them in your work, please contact the Alumni Engagement team at alumni@qmul.ac.uk.