Iván Castro

Senior Analyst Team Lead, Bank of England

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day.

My role is part of the Money and Credit Group’s (MCG) statistical team, which focuses on quality assurance, production, explanation, and publication of the Bank’s monthly money and credit statistics. This position is within the Balance Sheet Team, responsible for publishing aggregate data on reporting firms’ balance sheets, Bank of England publications such as the Weekly Report, the consolidated Balance Sheet, and data related to firms' usage of the Bank of England’s sterling monetary framework operations.

How do you feel your degree helped you get a job after graduation?

My degree from the University of Birmingham significantly enhanced my analytical skills, which I apply daily in my role at the Bank. The courses in Mathematical Finance, Machine Learning, Statistical Methods and Risk Management were particularly instrumental in this development.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

My MSc in Mathematical Finance at the University of Birmingham provided me with a strong foundation in quantitative analysis, financial modelling, and risk management, which are directly relevant to my role at the Bank of England.

One of the key skills I apply daily is data analysis, understanding complex financial datasets, extracting meaningful insights, and ensuring data quality for effective decision-making. The rigorous coursework has enhanced my ability to assess financial risks and trends, particularly when working with balance sheet data to ensure it reflects real economic activity in the UK.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham? Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree?

I did not pursue any additional training beyond my master’s degree studies. A few months after completing my degree, I received two job offers and chose the one at the bank.

What advice would you give to current and prospective students looking to work in your sector?

Young job seekers in London, stay curious. Companies appreciate those eager to develop their soft and technical skills.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?

It is advisable for students to focus on their studies, interact with various individuals, and establish connections with other students and lecturers. Consider applying for different types of roles, such as internships or entry-level positions.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so, what impact did they have on you?

I utilized a networking and coaching service provided by the University of Birmingham, which connected me with a professional working in finance in New York. He provided advice and shared his career path, offering valuable insights that I found inspirational.

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham?

At the University of Birmingham, I had the privilege of studying in an international environment, alongside students from diverse backgrounds and various parts of the world. This experience afforded me the opportunity to collaborate and learn from them for the first time in my life, making it one of the most valuable experiences I have ever had.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student?

I seized the opportunity to participate in tennis training sessions, an activity I had long aspired to engage in.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham is a prestigious institution, part of the esteemed Russell Group and ranked among the top 100 universities globally; these were my primary considerations before applying. My major in Mathematical Finance was ideal, offering courses in statistics, probability, and their applications in finance, which particularly captured my interest. The city's strategic location was also significant, as Birmingham provides convenient connections to other major cities in the UK.