Can you tell me about your journey into the securities finance industry?
My journey into the securities finance industry was more of an evolution, shaped by curiosity and the detours I embraced along the way. I studied computer science with plans to pursue engineering, but business management quickly captured my interest, particularly financial accounting, which led me to pursue an MBA in Finance.
I began my career at a global investment banking firm in asset servicing, managing corporate actions for institutional clients worldwide. It was a fast-paced, high-stakes environment that taught me efficiency, resiliency, risk awareness, time management, and decision-making. More importantly, I learned the real impact of communication and client trust in post-trade.
Later, I moved to a Canadian bank in the post-trade space, supporting institutional clients across Canada and the US, gaining exposure to securities lending and collateral, and seeing how all the pieces fit together to support the market was fascinating.
In 2022 I joined TMX CDS, starting in customer support before transitioning into a relationship manager role. This opened doors to the forefront of the business, allowing me to work directly with clients and gain exposure to multiple areas within post-trade. My most recent move into a strategic business development role on the commercial side is where everything came together.
I focus on driving client relationship-led growth, supporting new client onboarding, expanding product adoption, and launching revenue-generating initiatives to address industry challenges. Across my roles, I bridge the gap between post-trade operations and client conversations.
As an emerging professional, I have learned that staying curious, adaptable, and willing to step outside of defined lanes has been key to my growth in this industry.
As a young professional, what aspects of your role or the industry do you find most exciting?
What excites me most is how dynamic and interconnected the securities finance industry is. The work sits at the intersection of markets, regulation, technology, and client needs, which means there is always something new to learn and opportunities to navigate that translate into real outcomes. I thrive in roles that challenge me and allow me to connect the dots between operations, clients, and outcomes, and turn complexity into solutions.
On a day-to-day level, I love solving problems, collaborating across teams, and engaging directly with clients. The pace keeps me on my toes, and the mix of complexity, creativity, collaboration, and impact is what makes this space genuinely exciting for me.
Many companies offer various training and development opportunities for their employees. How has your company supported your growth?
TMX has been incredibly supportive of my growth and has one of the best learning and development programmes, with which I completed an MBA Essentials programme at the Rotman School of Management, and I have also had the chance to participate in internal committees focused on knowledge sharing across different teams.
The mentorship programmes have been particularly valuable, giving me guidance as I navigate my career. What I appreciate most is that TMX rewards capability and good performance, providing me with opportunities to take on roles that align with my strengths and passion where I can make a real impact.
What misconceptions about working in the financial industry have you encountered, and how do you address these challenges?
A common misconception about the securities finance industry is that it is purely operational or back office work. In reality, it is highly dynamic and strategic, involving problem-solving, risk management, and client relationship building. Early in my career, I quickly learned that the industry is layered, and every role has a direct impact on clients and the business. Success depends not just on crunching numbers or striking out a task list, but on communication, collaboration, and adaptability.
What advice do you have for other young professionals aspiring to pursue a career in your industry?
Say ‘yes’ to opportunities that challenge you, and do not be afraid to switch gears to find what truly excites you. In my career, I have taken detours and risks to find a role that resonates with me, one that integrates my experience in post-trade, technology, problem-solving, and client relationships.
Every experience brings you one step closer to finding your passion. Stay curious, resilient, and keep learning; I strongly believe the moment you stop learning is the moment you become stagnant. And while doing so, most importantly, do not forget to enjoy the journey.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the next five years in terms of your career goals and aspirations?
Having worked across distinct roles, I have gained broad exposure to different aspects of the securities finance industry. Over the next five years, my goal is to continue growing in client-facing and strategic roles, deepen my understanding of client needs and deliver tangible solutions, alongside completing my PMP certification to enhance my ability to manage complex strategic initiatives.
Influenced by the mentors and colleagues who have supported my journey, I also aspire to take on leadership responsibilities, guiding new talents while contributing to initiatives that drive innovation. At the same time, I want to remain actively involved in strategic business development projects that broaden my perspective and allow me to make an impactful contribution to the industry.
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GLMX
Olivia Russell
Image: TMX CDS 
