5 minutes with… a Financial Engineer

Sean Muldoon, Financial Engineer

In the first of our FD Hot Seat Q&A series, we caught up with Financial Engineer Sean Muldoon to quiz him on all things FD!

 

Hi Sean! Tell us about yourself.

I’m Sean Muldoon from Eglish, a small village in County Tyrone and the eldest sibling of a family of 8. Growing up all we knew was the GAA and traditional music.
I attended St. Patrick’s Grammar School, Armagh, where I was first introduced to the computing world by Mr. Damien Woods before it became part of the school curriculum.
Graduating with a FdSc in Computing from SWC and a BSc in Computer Science from Ulster University, I joined First Derivatives in January 2019.

 

What do you enjoy the most about your role at FD?

The people. My current project is within Capital Markets Consulting, supporting our client’s ever-evolving banking system. On a day-to-day basis, our team of 8 each bring our own expertise to investigate and resolve trading issues. We share our knowledge daily on the complexities of the system and that’s what makes learning every day enjoyable.

 

How has working for FD benefited you personally and professionally?

The fast-paced environment at FD has improved my own drive, from managing my personal finance to applying myself more to my sporting career. Professionally, I have developed critical thinking skills in my work and learned the importance of self-presentation. Over time you start to recognise the skills and qualities you acquire throughout your journey.

 

What qualities do you need to be successful at FD?

Be ambitious. FD have numerous opportunities throughout the business, so don’t limit your options. Be confident. What you may lack in technical ability should be because you haven’t had the opportunity to learn thus far.

 

What motivates you most each day?

My family and friends. Seeing their positive attitude to life reflects how I live mine.

 

Do you have a favourite quote that inspires you?

“Whenever they speak Michael Jordan, they should speak Scottie Pippen” – Michael Jordan.

For me, this is a reminder to be grateful to the people who helped get you to where you are. Other people’s selfless actions for you can be as important as the life decisions you make.

 

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Not so much advice, but more so in how I’ve been raised. It’s to not take anything personally, but if it’s really bugging you, talk to someone.

 

What makes FD unique to other companies?

The story from its humble beginnings until the present day. To now being a leading provider of products and consulting services to some of the world’s largest finance, technology and energy institutions. First Derivatives give our people the diverse and invaluable experience of the business and corporate world from our own small island.

 

What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying for FD?

Identify your skillset, prove your skillset and never sell yourself short. Aside from meeting the criteria, research the company and have a passion for what we do, it’s why I’m at First Derivatives.

 

Think you’re a good FD fit? Check out our current opportunities today!