(0)
Ama Ocansey of BNP Paribas

Movers and Shakers | Ama Ocansey | Legal Counsel | BNP Paribas

Ama is currently Senior Legal counsel at worldwide investment and retail bank, BNP Paribas London, in their Corporate Investment Banking Legal department, working on Eurobond financing and debt restructuring transactions with a focus on advising sovereigns, corporates and banks in emerging markets.

Briefly describe your current job responsibilities

I am a lawyer in the Corporate and Investment Banking Group. My role entails structuring, advising and negotiating cross-border capital markets and securities transactions, with a focus on emerging markets. My day-to-day activities involve drafting and reviewing Eurobond documentation, preparing presentations and pitching to external clients, conducting diligence, settling bond transactions, addressing legal, compliance and commercial enquiries from the front office and external clients. I manage and instruct external lawyers, auditors and liaise with regulators and rating agencies. I am involved in training junior lawyers, paralegals and investment bankers

What were the key decision points that were important in deciding your career path?

I have always been interested in financial markets and how companies, corporates and banks raise funds in order to invest, grow and develop their businesses. During my legal training at Linklaters, I chose seats in different areas of finance. I really enjoyed capital markets work because it was international and decided to specialise in this area.

What do you enjoy most about your current role?

Working with overseas clients and understanding their businesses requirements. I also enjoy learning about different legal jurisdictions and laws and applying them to international bond transactions.

What is the most challenging aspect of your work? What strategies have you developed for tackling that challenge?

Internal and external clients can at times be extremely demanding and require a quick turnaround. Managing their expectations and also doing a thorough and good job when there are tight deadlines, can be difficult.

I try to establish “real” deadlines for work and also keep clients updated so they know where I am with their work.

What has been the most defining moment in your career to date?

Last year was very exciting. I managed to be a finalist for three industry awards and also listed as one of Brummell’s list of 30 Inspirational Women. It was really nice to be acknowledged for my professional achievements and also my activities promoting and supporting diversity.

Who is the industry figure that you admire? Why is this?

Dr Sandie Okoro, General Counsel at the World Bank is someone I admire. Her role perfectly demonstrates how being in-house counsel can really take you anyway. The World Bank is a dynamic institution and leading it on the legal side must be really interesting and challenging.

Best piece of career advice you have ever received? And who was it from?

My older brother who is a banker advised that I should be flexible because you never know where it will take you.

Away from your work role what are your passions?

I really enjoy escaping into the world of books, theatre and drama. Exercising is another passion especially yoga. I find meditation and mindfulness a good way to manage stress. Am also a keen traveller but since having a family this has reduced significantly.

What are the 3 (professional or personal) books/websites/ or resources that you would recommend to others?

The Temple of My Familiar– Alice Walker or Americanah – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

LinkedIn of course

The Lawyer

What do you know now, that you wish you had known as you started your career?

Find a mentor and a sponsor as soon as you start working in any organisation. They serve different roles and you will need their guidance at different times in your career journey.

Do you have any advice for women entering your industry?

Find like-minded people, not necessarily women and seek their support, guidance and advice. There is no need to be alone, lots of people are facing the same challenges/issues and it is too easy to think you are on your own.

If you weren’t in this role what would be your alternative career?

A few years ago I would have said an actress but recently I think I would enjoy being a teacher.

—-

Ama was a finalist in the Outstanding Women in Banking & Finance category at the 2017 PRECIOUS Awards.

Connect with Ama on Twitter: @ama_ocansey

Leave a Reply