REA Group’s Andrew Russell explains how to maximise the opportunities in finance today
Q: How did you first get into finance?
A: I was working in strategy at Virgin and we had just launched the Virgin credit card. We were deciding which retail product we should launch next, and I was tasked with writing a business case for mortgage entry. It all started right there, and now I’m fortunate enough to head up the financial services business at REA. It’s certainly been a fascinating journey so far!
Q: What’s the greatest challenge for brokers at this time?
A: The challenge for most brokers is the ability to keep focused on building and growing their businesses, while delivering great customer outcomes for their clients.
Right now, doing all of this without getting distracted by the commentary around the industry is really adding an additional element to this challenge.
Q: What are your top survival tips for working in finance?
A: I like to think of these as my top tips for maximising a career in finance, rather than tips for survival.
There’s no doubt a career in finance can be challenging at times, but I think these tips hold you in good stead to ride over those obstacles and enjoy success.
Firstly, you need to be resilient. The challenges test you, but it’s how you overcome them that matters.
Next, set business goals and review them regularly with honesty. You need to be willing to flex as circumstances change in your direct environment and the industry.
And finally, keep asking yourself: how can I be better at what I do, how can I improve my knowledge and skills, how will my business need to compete tomorrow to win? Always ask yourself what you can do, not why something didn’t work as you had hoped or expected.
Q: If you won $1m, what would you do with it?
A: Firstly, I would be so shocked as I have never even won a raffle, let alone $1m. I would start by celebrating with my friends and family, nothing overly extravagant but I’d want to share it with them. A million dollars isn’t what it used to be, that’s for sure, but I think I’d spend the vast majority investing in property.
