Momoko Hasegawa, Rates Sales at Societe Generale Corporate and Investment Banking – SGCIB, won Rising Star at Markets Media Group’s 2023 Women in Finance (U.S.) Awards.
What was your reaction to winning the award?
I was totally surprised but I am really honored to have received this award. It would not have been possible without support from my team members, the management and my family. I am grateful to be able to work with all these great people at SocGen.
Who have been the main influences in your career?
My mother. My family runs a small seafood business in my hometown and she has been supporting it while raising four kids. Even though it’s a different industry than finance she has been a great influence of my career. She always stays positive, keeps learning new things, looks for new opportunities and never afraid of failing. I try to keep such attitude towards my work throughout my career and I believe that’s how I was able to develop my career so far.
What’s something you’re really proud of and why?
I am proud of all decisions I have made in my life. I was born and raised in a small town in Japan and as much as I love my hometown I started to feel there are limited opportunities for my future. After graduating a middle school in my hometown, I decided to move to a bigger city go to a high school there. I am glad that I made that decision and get out of my comfort zone because I met so many inspiring people including those from overseas in a new city, which makes me motived to learn English and even move to the U.S to study at the university. All the decisions made who I am today and made it possible to work at a global leading financial institution and get recognized in the industry.
Where do you see yourself in five years from now?
I am not sure about the location where I will be – either New York, Tokyo or somewhere else in five years but I still see myself working in the finance industry. I will keep learning and would like to share my knowledge and help young people in the industry. I would also like to share my experience working in different locations in Tokyo and New York and encourage those who pursue their goals to work in a different country.
What’s your advice to the next generation of women in finance?
I would encourage them to network and get to know as many people in the company as possible. Of course, it is important to build good relationship within the team in their immediate function, but it is also important to know someone outside of the team because someday if they’re in trouble they know who to ask for help. Also finance is a rapid industry so never stops learning every day. Don’t be hesitant and don’t be afraid of asking questions.
