Sonja L

Studied: Business Administration, Philipps-University Marburg
Location: Frankfurt
Joined: 2007
Interest: Hiking, skiing, spending time with family

About me
I joined Rothschild & Co in 2007 as a Vice President in Financial Advisory. Five years ago, I additionally took on the role as COO for the German entity and later became CFO of the German financial advisory business. Besides the 'usual' responsibilities of a CFO, I look after most support units in the Frankfurt office and need to make sure that everything runs smoothly and that our bankers receive the best support possible.  

What is great about my job
What I like most about my current position is being involved in the strategic discussions about our business and its development. Furthermore, the content of my work is very diversified - apart from regular tasks, I often have to solve ad hoc problems, making every day different. Another aspect I like is that I have the opportunity to participate in global projects in the Finance division. 

The skills I need 
The most important skill is good judgement. Analytical skills, efficiency and empathy are also very important.

My take on the culture
Compared to other investment banks I have worked at in the past, the culture at Rothschild & Co is different. It is much more long-term oriented, less 'noisy', and colleagues treat each other with more respect.

Progression 
I receive a lot of support from my superiors. The most amazing sign of that support was when I was promoted to Director within Global Advisory while I was away on maternity leave. In support divisions, the path to progress is less defined and clear than in the front office. However, I have personally experienced that if you speak out you receive the chance to prove yourself in new challenges and grow.

Outside of work
Spending time with my family. We love to go hiking in the local mountains around Frankfurt at the weekends. We also enjoy going skiing in the winter.