Meet the Manager - Q&A with Pauline Llandric
- 13 August 2024 (5 min read)
1. Please tell us about yourself. What are your education and career experiences to date?
I graduated with an Industrial Engineering Degree from INP Toulouse in 2007 and a master's degree in finance from Paris-Dauphine University in 2008. My journey in the investment world began in September 2008 when I joined AXA IM London as a quantitative analyst. During my time in this role, I gained valuable experience in systematic investing, portfolio optimisation and quantitative research. This provided me with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of investment management.
However, after several years, I felt a strong desire to explore the fundamental investing side and take on a more active role in portfolio management. This led me to transition into my current role as a Portfolio Manager, focusing on technology and technology-related thematic funds. Being a part of this team has been incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally.
One of the things I appreciate most about my career at AXA IM is having had the opportunity to take on diverse roles and responsibilities. The company’s culture embraces employee mobility and flexibility which has allowed me to explore different aspects of investment management and develop a well-rounded skill set. From my early days as a quantitative analyst to my current position as portfolio manager, I have been able to continuously learn, grow and adapt to new challenges. This dynamic environment has been a key factor in my decision to build my career at AXA IM and I am grateful for the opportunities and support the company has provided me over the years.
2. What is interesting about your role here at AXA IM and what motivates you to do well?
The ever-changing nature of financial markets keeps me motivated. It is a constant reminder to remain humble and recognise that investing is a lifelong learning journey. I have always been drawn to the complexity of the field and the fact that these skills will stay with me throughout my career and beyond.
As a portfolio manager focusing on technology, I have the privilege to research new trends, innovations and companies that have the potential to shape our future. This dynamic landscape keeps me on my toes! It is extremely motivating to help our clients benefit from the tremendous growth potential of technology. Additionally, the constantly evolving nature of the technology landscape keeps me engaged to continuously learn and adapt. The challenge of staying ahead of the curve in such a dynamic field is both intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding.
3. How do you feel you complement the team’s skills and add value?
I believe my diverse background, which combines an engineering education with experience in quantitative investing, allows me to bring a differentiated perspective to our team. I have always been attracted to the scientific aspect of things, regularly asking myself “how does it work?”. This curiosity, coupled with my affinity for complexity and analysis helps me understand the technologies we are investing in.
In addition, I am a strong believer in the power of collaboration and open communication. I actively share my ideas and insights with my colleagues, and I value the diverse perspectives they bring to the table. By fostering a culture of teamwork and knowledge sharing, we can leverage our collective expertise to deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.
4. Since joining the Equity team, what has surprised you the most?
Since joining AXA IM, I have been consistently impressed by the firm's strong emphasis on fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. One of the most pleasant surprises has been the excellence of my colleagues, not only in terms of their professional expertise but also their personal qualities. I am fortunate to work alongside a group of talented and dedicated individuals who are passionate about what they do and committed to delivering excellent results for our clients.
Another aspect that has stood out to me is AXA IM's commitment to innovation and staying at the forefront of industry trends. The firm's willingness to invest in cutting-edge strategies, such as the AI & Metaverse fund, demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that aligns with my own interests and career aspirations. This commitment to innovation creates an exciting and dynamic work environment that encourages continuous learning and growth.
5. What does progress mean to you?
To me, progress is closely linked to the advancement of technology and its potential to drive positive change in the world. As a portfolio manager focussing on technology-related investments, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the rapid pace of innovation and the transformative impact it can have on industries and society. When I reflect on how far we have come in just a few decades, it is astounding. From the advent of personal computers to the ubiquity of smartphones, from dial-up internet to 5G networks, the pace of innovation has been relentless.
One area that particularly excites me is the development of artificial intelligence and its potential applications. From healthcare and education to finance and beyond, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we live and work.
As an investor, progress is also about adapting to new market realities, staying curious and open to new ideas to make better informed decisions for our clients.
6. And aside from work, tell us something interesting about yourself that most people won’t know?
While many know me as a portfolio manager, few are aware that I'm also a musician. Music has been an integral part of my life since a very young age. I've played the violin since I was a child and I'm also a singer. One of the more unique aspects of my musical ability is that I have perfect pitch (ability to identify musical notes without a reference tone) with synaesthesia (which means that I see colours and shapes alongside sounds). This allows me to experience music in a very profound way.
I strongly believe that my musical background has influenced my professional life. The discipline required to master an instrument, the ability to recognize patterns and the creative thinking fostered by musical expression all translate well into the world of investment management.
I continue to find a lot of joy in my musical interests, and it remains a defining aspect of who I am beyond my work. I believe that having a creative outlet and a passion outside of work helps me maintain a healthy balance and brings a fresh perspective to my role as a portfolio manager.
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Risk Warning
The value of investments, and the income from them, can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the amount originally invested.
Risk Warning
The value of investments, and the income from them, can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the amount originally invested.