Laura McGonagle worked for 16 years in banking, but just over two years ago took on a new challenge with FinTrU in Letterkenny. She’s been speaking with Paul Bradley.
Hi Laura, could you tell us a little about yourself please.
Of course! I’m originally from Flemingstown, Convoy. I graduated from the University of Ulster in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management, then I started my 16-year AIB retail banking career.
I worked in branches from Inishowen to Letterkenny. I was a cashier, investment adviser and a student officer, helping run the LYIT (now ATU) branch.
I loved meeting the public and helping with their everyday banking needs and, as you can imagine, these needs and banking technologies have changed significantly over those 16 years.
In 2022, I decided to take on a new challenge and become part of an up-and-coming company newly situated in Letterkenny, FinTrU. Two years in and the experience and opportunities have been fantastic.
I now manage a KYC (Know Your Client) team which is a real mix of experienced professionals and recent graduates – I get such satisfaction mentoring and watching them grow in their careers.
What does FinTrU actually do? (I confess, I have looked online but was not sure what Client Lifecycle Management actually means…)
In simple terms, we design and provide technology-enabled solutions for international investment banks to help them meet their regulatory obligations.
The best example is when you go to get a loan, you need to provide evidence around your identity, address, proof of income etc., we do this on a bigger scale on behalf of our investment bank clients. It’s all based around preventing financial crime.
Are names like FinTrU, which seems to follow a modern pattern of short titles that are neither words nor names, deliberately designed to not to give away too much about the company? Is there another purpose as well that we’re not seeing?
There’s a reason for the capital letters! They stand for Financial Transparency Utility – and the company’s mission is to work to protect the integrity of the financial services industry and our clients.
What makes the job worthwhile for you personally?
Working for an organisation that wants to bring careers and training to the local community in Donegal and is always encouraging you to grow and learn.
The cultural aspect of the job is second to none too. Last year I was part of the FinTrU Charity committee, with Donegal Hospice as our chosen charity partner. We hosted office events, a quiz at Arena 7, and walked and baked throughout the year to raise a substantial donation alongside providing hours of volunteering through our Letterkenny-based employees.
Hybrid working is also a massive benefit for me as I have a young family. FinTrU is a modern company focused on supporting work life balance for its employees ranging from young professionals, working parents or experienced professionals seeking a new challenge.
Any pending plans for yourself or FinTru that we might expect/hope to see?
FinTrU officially opened its new premises at Windyhall, Letterkenny in September 2024 so we will be continuing to grow for quite some time. Currently there are openings for new graduates and experienced KYC professionals to join our lovely team. Check out our website if you’re interested.
QUICKFIRE
Favourite film or music:
With Christmas just behind us, it would have to be ELF.
Your favourite kind of date night:
At home, film on and feet up (with no washing up to do).
What do you look for most in a friend?
Humour.
A motto you live by:
Get stuck in!
The Third Degree column is carried every Thursday in the Donegal News.
If anyone else would like to take part in this interview, to raise a profile or an issue, please contact Paul at Dnthirddegree@gmail.com
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