Megan Stern: Collections to Capital Markets - A Career Transition Story

In this career transition story, Megan Stern shares how her customer-focused background equipped her with a practical edge in Capital Markets, her journey through on-the-job learning, and the key advice she’d give anyone looking to make a similar move.

What motivated you to make the transition from Collections to Capital Markets?

My transition from Collections to Capital Markets was closely tied to my previous experiences before joining Lendable. While I enjoyed working in Collections and interacting with customers, when the opportunity to move into Capital Markets presented itself, I decided to take it. It felt like a natural next step and a chance to explore something new while building on what I had already learned.

Which skills from your previous role as a Collections Agent have been most beneficial in your new position in Capital Markets?

My time in Collections at Lendable gave me valuable insights into the systems, processes, and, most importantly, the people involved. This experience provided me with a unique perspective when I moved into Capital Markets, where much of the work focuses on processes. Unlike many of my colleagues in Capital Markets, who often focus on back-end operations, I had firsthand experience with the front-end, which allowed me to approach my new projects with a practical understanding of both sides.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during your transition, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge was updating my knowledge base, as Capital Markets is vastly different from Collections. It’s not a field you can easily step into without a solid understanding of its intricacies. Initially, this was a significant hurdle for me. However, I overcame it through on-the-job experience. I asked countless questions, took detailed notes, and allowed myself time to grasp the broad scope of Capital Markets. This hands-on approach helped me build the confidence and knowledge I needed.

What kind of training or support did you receive from the company to facilitate your transition?

There wasn't any formal training for the transition. Most of my learning happened on the job. Fortunately, I received a lot of one-on-one coaching from the person who previously held my role. Their guidance was crucial in helping me understand the expectations and nuances of the position, and they remained a valuable resource until I felt comfortable managing the work on my own.

How does the day-to-day work in Capital Markets compare to your previous role in Collections?

Collections is very customer-focused and target-driven. It involves constant interaction through phone calls, emails, and chats, and the work is highly structured. In Capital Markets, the focus shifts to projects and operational goals. My role now is less about customer interaction and more about ensuring tasks are completed within deadlines. There’s a lot more freedom in how I approach my work, but with that autonomy comes the responsibility of staying self-motivated. I really enjoy this balance of independence and accountability in my current role.

How do you think this move has impacted your career growth and future opportunities within the company?

These days, my focus is more on maintaining a good work-life balance, and I believe this role provides that. The move has also made my experience more versatile, which I believe could open doors for future opportunities. If I ever decide to pursue a change, this transition has undoubtedly broadened my skill set and given me a wider range of options for the future.

What advice would you give to someone considering a similar internal move within the company?

My advice would be to ensure that the right people know about your ambitions. It’s important to talk to key individuals in positions of influence, not just your peers or immediate colleagues. Letting the right people know about your goals can open up opportunities you may not have considered. What are your future career aspirations within the Capital Markets field, and how do you plan to achieve them?

For now, I’m content where I am. The ongoing expansion into the US market and the introduction of new products keep the role interesting and dynamic. Looking ahead, I might consider a move that combines my interest in property with my experience in Capital Markets, but for now, I’m happy to keep growing and learning in my current position.

Megan's story showcases the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and leveraging past experience to navigate a successful internal transition. From working with customers in Collections to managing projects in Capital Markets, Megan’s journey is a testament to how new opportunities can emerge from the skills and knowledge gained in previous roles.