Steven Skinner

Biography

Let’s get a little candid. As a manager, what was the most unexpected thing for you, and what did you not anticipate? 

What really impressed me was the incredible support I received from the rest of the team when I transitioned into a managerial role. They welcomed me with open arms into the new position and helped me comfortably transition into the role. I knew there would be support, but the initial assistance and guidance that I received were extremely encouraging and reassuring. 

Give us a snapshot of your career from when you graduated to the present. What career pathway did you choose to pursue and why?

After finishing university with a degree in Commerce, I embarked on a career in accounting with one of the big four firms in Bermuda. When I read about the Graduate Training Programme, I became fascinated and knew it was something that I had to do to challenge myself. Transitioning to financial regulation was a bit of a unique challenge but also one that I embraced. The GTP was such an amazing experience! The Authority offered so many unique opportunities during the three-year programme that prepared me for the next stage of my career. After finishing the programme, I became involved in regulating Banks, Trusts, Corporate Service Providers, Fund Administrators and Investment Businesses Companies by joining the On-site Team. After several years working in the On-site Team, I  moved to the Supervision Team as a Principal, concentrating on the day-to-day oversight of licensed and regulated entities.

How did the BMA support your professional growth?

The Authority always encourages growth, whether it is through courses, professional training,  on-the-job experiences or professional certifications and designations. When I finished the programme, I had the opportunity to join the On-site Team. This was extremely interesting as I gained a deeper understanding of how the various licensed entities operated and complied with the Bermuda’s regulations. As a result, I've shifted my approach from an accounting perspective to embracing a more regulatory mindset. To learn more about the field, I took courses focused on financial regulation and I am now a member of ISACA, ICA, and ACAMS thanks to the support of the Authority.

What additional learning opportunities or special projects has the BMA offered you, and which one is the most memorable?

One of the most memorable projects was the opportunity to complete the research papers that members of the GTP are required to write. This was quite memorable, as it involved research, interviews, critical analysis and data analytics. Furthermore, as part of the programme, I completed an international work secondment with the Prudential Regulation Authority in the UK that provided greater insight into the global regulatory framework. The Authority's projects are also varied, ranging from legislative updates to industry outreach and data management. No two days at the BMA are the same!

How have you applied what you learned from your manager to how you manage your own team?

My manager is always actively involved in my day-to-day work and provides great insight by sharing their own experiences and how they relate to a current project or initiative. They also let me figure out things on my own while providing guidance. This gives me the opportunity to grow and learn. The most important benefit, however, is the support I have received. I think it is important to know that your manager will support you and consider your performance and your personal well-being. These principles have helped me grow and to be in the position I am in today. For this reason, I now manage my own team using these values and principles.

What transferable skills have prepared you to manage your team?

I’m also a sergeant within the Royal Bermuda Regiment and though there are differences in how you manage the different teams, there are some similar transferable skills. These include working with team members, listening to their ideas, understanding their processes and avoiding micromanaging individuals. In general, other skills that have helped me prepare for the role include multitasking and time management, communication, adaptability and problem-solving, all skills that were developed during my employment with the Authority. 

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