Marina is finding the right balance

Marina’s life at Deutsche Bank is much more than the job she does day-today. She works in our Compliance division, covering emerging markets and foreign exchange. But just as importantly, she’s on the steering committee for our NextGen Network, a member of our Latinx Leadership Forum, both Employee Resource Group (ERG) that focus on Diversity & Inclusion, and, most importantly of all, she’s a new mum. It’s a lot to juggle but she’s found the support and structure to keep things balanced.

“When I was pregnant, my husband and I joined the bank’s Working Parent Career Coaching programme, and we received some very good practical advice. The session was great as it involved us both and was a tailored experience based on our circumstances and experience.”

Since returning from maternity leave, Marina has felt the support of her team. She feels she can be there for all of her children’s big and small moments – Halloween parades, dentist appointments, school performances or when they might get sick. Working hours are respected and stepping away from the desk at 5 pm is always encouraged.

“In terms of having a child, I feel like I've been a hundred percent supported by my manager and the bank. I absolutely feel like there is work-life balance here.”

In addition to your role responsibilities, employees are encouraged to pursue their interests and passions – making a real contribution to the culture of the bank in the process.  

“Ever since I joined I've been part of ERGs. My manager today and my managers in previous roles have been very supportive of my time commitment to these groups. And they join meetings and events themselves to show their support – extending the invitations to their leaders too to expand the reach of what we do. Their active support really means a lot to me.”

Marina focusses her energy on the Latinx Leadership Forum (LLF) - connecting those with Latinx heritage and allies within the bank to create lasting change; and the NextGen group, helping bridge the gap between the generations of employees at the bank and facilitating ongoing networking and collaboration.  

“For NextGen, I was part of their reverse mentoring programme – where juniors mentor more senior colleagues. It's a great way of connecting with our senior leaders on what we need to do to keep top talent, stay attractive to the younger generation, and build the culture in future.”

Marina knows there is real value in building strong connections.

“I’m originally from Brazil, and I worked at Deutsche Bank in my home country. After I got married and moved to the US, I connected with some of my old Brazilian colleagues who had also been transferred and they helped me to navigate the bank and find my next role. “

“Now I work within the LatAm team, speaking Portuguese, Spanish and English. My work covers the emerging markets, and I am the first point of contact for compliance for a lot of different groups.”

“When I first moved to the US, it was scary to be in a foreign country. Joining the LLF, where I met people who were in a similar situation to me, was definitely helpful. Having that connection gave me the confidence to pursue my career goals within the bank. I don’t think I would have been able to do that without the support of the group behind me.”