Tazeen Syeda, Director – Fidelity Brokerage Technology, Fidelity Investments India, muses about her journey that led her to Fidelity, and how the firm’s thriving and inclusive culture has empowered her to sharpen her technology acumen and leadership influence.
Describe your journey so far.
I graduated from Vijaya College, Bangalore, where I specialized in mathematics, economics, and statistics. My journey as a professional began at a young age, initially in the field of direct selling from which I transitioned to the corporate sector, working primarily in contact centers, where I managed customer service and technical support operations.
For a considerable portion of my career, I worked at Hewlett Packard, India, where I gained valuable experience in the corporate space and honed my skills as a professional. My role involved addressing customer inquiries and providing technical assistance to them. This experience equipped me with a solid foundation in customer relationship management and technical problem-solving.
Subsequently, I embarked on a new chapter in my career by joining Microsoft in India. During my tenure there, I supported customer relationship management for the US and EMEA regions. My role enabled me to interact with diverse teams and customers across different regions, helping to further enhance my global perspectives, cross-cultural communication, and technical skills.
My educational background in mathematics, economics, and statistics, together with my extensive professional experience, has provided me with a unique skill set – I am adept at analyzing data, solving complex problems, and delivering exceptional customer service. These skills have been instrumental in my career growth and success both in the technology industry and broader corporate world.
What made you choose Fidelity as a preferred employer?
When I was first approached for the role at Fidelity, I had limited knowledge about the expansive world of services and opportunities that Fidelity offers. I soon enough learnt that Fidelity was a significant player in the financial services industry.
As I contemplated the prospect of joining Fidelity, the advice and opinions of friends and family weighed heavily on my decision-making process. They consistently emphasized Fidelity’s reputation as one of the most stable and ethically driven organizations to be associated with. This was a pivotal motivator for me in considering a career with Fidelity.
The reassurance of stability and ethical practices resonated strongly with my personal values and career aspirations. I recognized that aligning myself with such an esteemed institution would not only provide a secure foundation for my professional journey but also offer the opportunity to contribute to a company that upholds high standards of integrity and accountability.
The trust and respect that Fidelity commands within the industry and among those I respect and trust in my personal circle played a pivotal role in my decision to join the organization. It was clear that Fidelity’s commitment to excellence, ethics, and stability was in perfect harmony with my own values and career ambitions.
Today, as a proud member of the Fidelity team, I am excited to contribute my skills and dedication to an organization that not only meets but exceeds the expectations set by my friends and family. I look forward to being a part of Fidelity’s continued success and its unwavering commitment to ethical and responsible financial services.
How would you describe your journey with Fidelity so far?
I find immense satisfaction in my role at Fidelity primarily because of the incredible team I have the privilege of working with. Joining Fidelity as a people manager was a natural choice for me, given my two decades of experience in such a role. However, in the last seven years at Fidelity, I have taken a different path and transitioned into an individual contributor role. This shift has allowed me to lend my expertise to various teams and roles, providing me with invaluable insights into various aspects of the company.
One of the most remarkable aspects of working at Fidelity is our collaborative approach. We view all our colleagues as partners, not only within our local teams but also globally. This unified approach results in our ultimate focus being the end customer, in whatever we do. Our customer-centric ethos binds us together as a one unified global team.
Fidelity Investments India, and indeed the whole global organization, is a diverse firm that caters to individuals at every stage of their career journey, whether they are interns, new hires, or seasoned professionals. Our Learning and Development (L&D) programs reflect this diversity, offering a wide range of options tailored to individual needs. At Fidelity, learning is not one-size-fits-all; it is about what you want to learn, how you want to learn it, and when you want to learn it. The resources available to us are exceptional, with both online and offline training modes at our disposal.
What truly sets Fidelity apart is its commitment to inclusivity and support. I have found no other workplace that embraces diversity as sincerely as Fidelity does.
In addition to our regular roles, I am a part of several affinity groups that I deeply resonate with. These groups provide opportunities for likeminded individuals to connect and contribute to initiatives and programs that resonate with them.
The organization is also committed to benefiting and impacting the communities where we live and work through our corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, Fidelity Cares. This program is always on the lookout for ways to give back to society and benefit the environment. It reflects Fidelity’s commitment not only to its employees but also the broader community.
Overall, my journey at Fidelity has been enriching and fulfilling.
Our collaborative spirit, inclusivity, and commitment to personal and professional development make Fidelity an exceptional workplace. I look forward to continuing to grow and contribute both to the success of our organization and the betterment of the communities where we live and work, through Fidelity’s initiatives.
In your view, what are the attributes that are required to be a successful leader at Fidelity?
At Fidelity, the attributes and aspects that define me as a successful leader are rooted in our organizational culture that promotes leadership at all levels. This culture encourages continuous awareness of customer needs, and a spirit of continuous learning and adaptability, to deliver the best end-to-end experience through our solutions.
One of the key leadership principles that strongly resonates with me at Fidelity is the commitment to thinking and working across the firm. This principle reflects the importance of breaking down silos, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that our actions align with the broader goals of the organization. By embracing this principle, I have been able to bridge gaps, connect disparate teams, and create synergies that drive value for both Fidelity and our customers.
Another crucial principle I embrace is the willingness to take calculated risks and prioritize pace over perfection. In today’s dynamic business environment, the ability to make informed decisions swiftly is essential. I have learned that it’s often more valuable to act and iterate based on real-time feedback rather than wait for a perfect solution. This mindset has allowed me to drive innovation and adapt to changing circumstances effectively.
My nine-year tenure at Fidelity has been marked by significant growth and adaptability as I have moved across four different business units. Each of these experiences has played a vital role in shaping me into the leader I am today. I have consistently focused on delivering value, whether it’s in the form of innovative solutions, improved processes, or exceptional customer experiences.
Additionally, I believe in “telling it like it is”. Honest and transparent communication is the foundation of trust. This principle has helped create an environment of open dialogue and problem-solving, allowing us to address challenges head-on and make data-driven decisions.
Lastly, I take considerable pride in owning the outcomes of my actions and decisions. Accountability is a cornerstone of effective leadership, and I believe that taking ownership of results, whether they are successes or setbacks, is essential for personal and professional growth.
In summary, my journey as a successful leader at Fidelity has been defined by a commitment to collaboration, a willingness to take calculated risks, adaptability across diverse business units, a culture of honest communication, and unwavering accountability. These attributes enable me to contribute meaningfully to Fidelity’s mission of delivering exceptional value to our customers while continuously evolving as a leader in this dynamic industry.
Can you share your most cherished moment at Fidelity so far?
My journey at Fidelity has been rich with proud and memorable moments that have truly defined the fulfilment I find in my role. Among these standout moments, a few hold a special place in my heart.
First and foremost, I take immense pride in the achievements of the team I used to lead at Fidelity as a people manager. Witnessing their growth and seeing them transition into distinct roles within the organization, where they have not only excelled but also established themselves as valuable contributors, is a source of immense satisfaction. It underscores the significance of mentorship, teamwork, and the positive impact we can have on one another’s careers at Fidelity.
Another significant milestone in my journey was the honor of being nominated for the prestigious ‘Circle of Excellence’ award in our business group by one of our leaders. This recognition served as a powerful affirmation of the impact I was making within the organization and the value I bring to the various roles I have undertaken. It was a moment of realization that my contributions are not only valued but are also helping make a tangible difference in furthering Fidelity’s vision and goals.
These moments of pride and recognition have not only fueled my personal sense of accomplishment but also reinforced my commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. They serve as a testament to the collaborative and supportive culture at Fidelity, where individual efforts and dedication are celebrated, acknowledged, and woven into the fabric of our shared success story.
As I continue my journey at Fidelity, I am inspired by these moments to push the boundaries of what I can achieve and how I can contribute to the organization’s ongoing success. They remind me that every day presents an opportunity to make a positive impact and create lasting value.
What is the best advice you have received as a professional?
The most valuable advice I’ve ever received is to maintain an open mindset. Embracing openness allows us to observe things we might otherwise overlook. It nurtures a culture of continuous learning, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace new perspectives and approaches. This advice has been a cornerstone of my approach to both my professional and personal life.
In my professional journey, being open has enabled me to explore innovative solutions, collaborate effectively with diverse teams, and evolve within the ever-changing landscape of my industry. It has also enriched my personal life by encouraging me to embrace new experiences, appreciate different viewpoints, and grow as an individual.
This guidance holds a special place in my heart, serving as a reminder that being open-minded is not just a mindset but a way of life that leads to continuous growth.
What are some of the attributes you look for in a person you would want to hire for your team?
When it comes to hiring for my team, I place great emphasis on several key attributes that go beyond qualifications and experience. Firstly, I keenly observe the candidate’s body language during the interview. Non-verbal cues often reveal a lot about a person’s confidence, sincerity, and ability to engage with others effectively. They provide valuable insights into the individual’s communication skills and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for team dynamics.
Furthermore, I believe in the importance of getting to know more about a candidate’s experiences through their careers. I encourage candidates to open up about challenging situations they might have encountered in their previous roles, and inquire about how they have coped with adversity. This not only helps me assess their problem-solving abilities but also their resilience and potential for adaptability.
Equally significant is understanding what motivates them. I inquire about the moments in their career that would have brought them the most satisfaction and motivation. This helps me gauge their passion and alignment with my team’s objectives and the company’s values.
In essence, I look for individuals who not only possess the requisite skills but also exhibit strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and a genuine passion for their work. A holistic assessment, considering both emotional and intellectual aspects, ensures that we bring in team members who not only excel in their roles but also contribute positively to the team’s overall dynamics and success.
Describe a hurdle that you were proud of crossing.
One of my proudest and most memorable professional achievements was my transition from a people manager to an individual contributor role. This journey was marked by personal growth and resilience. It demanded that I confront my fears and embrace the unknown, and I am immensely proud of the path I have travelled.
The transition was not without its challenges. It required me to overcome the fear of stepping out of my comfort zone and venturing into uncharted territory. I embraced a mindset of “try and fail, and then try again”, recognizing that each setback was an opportunity to learn and grow. Giving up was never an option, and this determination fueled my journey.
Now, after six years in this role, I can proudly say that I stand strong and confident, leading from the front. This achievement not only reflects my personal growth but also my ability to adapt, thrive, and excel in new roles. It serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges, and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in my professional journey.
What is your favorite quote/saying?
A motto that has resonated deeply with me is, “No dream too big, no distance too long.” This empowering statement encapsulates the belief that our aspirations have no limits, and no obstacle is insurmountable when we are committed to pursuing our dreams. It serves as a constant reminder that our potential is boundless, encouraging me to reach for the stars and persevere in the face of challenges.
One timeless Hindi song that has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind is ”Hum Honge Kamyab” (we shall overcome). This iconic song has stood the test of time and continues to inspire generations with its message of hope, determination, and unwavering belief that success is forever within our grasp. Whenever I hear this song, it uplifts my spirit, reaffirming the conviction that with diligence and resilience, we can achieve greatness. It serves as a source of motivation and a reminder that our collective efforts can lead to success. I cherish this song as an anthem that continues to stimulate me through life’s journey.
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Views expressed are as of the date indicated and may change. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the author, and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments.
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