Javier
Principal Dealer, Banking Treasury
I work in the BIS's treasury unit, where I act as a market-maker for BIS products in currencies and gold. It's similar to what treasuries do in commercial or investment banks, but here we focus on central banks and international institutions. One main difference is that in my current role I multitask a lot. I hedge the market risk from customer transactions and contribute to the FX and gold risk-taking/investment activities for the Bank, similar to those of a commercial bank. I also develop business relationships with a portfolio of central bank customers and prepare and present market reports for the central banks and the BIS management. So it's somehow a mix of a trading, a sales and an economist role!
It's similar to what treasuries do in commercial or investment banks, but here we focus on central banks and international institutions.
Before joining the BIS, I worked in a commercial bank for more than 10 years, first as an economist in the research department, and then as an FX trader in the treasury department. Moving from the private sector to the BIS was a big challenge for me, but I saw the BIS as a unique place to work where I could use my previous experience as both an economist and a trader.
On a more personal note, moving to the BIS has allowed me to improve my work/life balance. My working hours are flexible and give me the opportunity to spend time with my family. Furthermore, Basel is a great place to live with children; it's a small city with lots of green space, it's safe and child-friendly. But the best thing for me about the BIS and Basel is the international environment; both are open to other cultures, and the presence of people from around the world gives you plenty of opportunities to make new friends of other nationalities and learn about different cultures.
Find out more about what life is like in Basel.