Excellence in Sales Trading: Jill Jacobson, Societe Generale

Jill Jacobson, Senior Sales/Trader, Societe Generale, won Excellence in Trading – Sales at Markets Media Group’s 2023 Women in Finance (U.S.) Awards.

Jill Jacobson

What was your reaction to winning the award? 

I was so shocked and incredibly thankful to be recognized for Excellence in trading for doing what I love every single day.

What have been the main drivers of your success? 

Dedication, desire to succeed, hard work and my ability to multitask.

How do you measure success? 

Accomplishing my goals and how their successful completion makes me feel.

What inspires you to work in this industry? 

I love the fast-paced environment, speaking to my colleagues and clients every day and determining what the next hot ETF will be.

Who have been the main influences in your career? 

There have been countless managers, peers and family that have influenced my career… I learned from the best, starting with my mom who’s work ethic was second to none, to my first manager in stock loan who took me under her wing and is still a big influence in my life and career today, to my next boss who gave me an opportunity to spread my wings and effect change, and my managers for the last few years at SG that have supported me on this journey….I am very appreciative to all of them

How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

In my career there are daily pressures and stressful situations. We are forever watching the clock for cut off times and deadlines all throughout the day. I have learned to start early, pace myself, plan and be prepared for everything, and if things get very stressful, to take a step back to reconsider my options and maybe speak to a colleague about the situation.   

What is your greatest accomplishment? 

Well, my greatest accomplishment will always be my family but I’m sure you meant a career accomplishment… so for that I would say my greatest accomplishment is working in stock loan at Societe Generale for 29.5 years of my career. 

What are your future goals? 

My goal is to continue to enjoy trading at SG, be a mentor to traders and interns at the firm, continue to support and participate in AWN and Women in Finance events, and contribute as much value as I can.

What’s your advice to the next generation of women in finance?  

Not so much advice but sharing my rules that I live by…treat people how you would like to be treated…be honest, fair, and don’t be afraid to admit you made a mistake.