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Kate Bauernschmidt was recognized as a ‘Rising Star’ at the 2016 Women in Finance Markets Choice Awards.

Describe the highlights of your career to date and your role/responsibilities at INTL FCStone Financial.

I currently serve as Vice President of Equity Trading at the Broker-Dealer Division of INTL FCStone Financial Inc., where my primary responsibilities include trading international securities, ADRs and ETFs for institutional clients. I also play a key role in global risk management operations and developing internal equity hedging strategies.  Additionally, I work with various INTL FCStone business units beyond the Market Making desk to cross-sell equity products and further the company’s growth.

In April, I helped ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. It was one of the most inspiring moments of my career. Since starting out as an intern in 2008, and moving onto trade desk assistant, Assistant Vice President and now Vice President, I could never have imagined how quickly my career has advanced.

What did you do to achieve recognition as a Rising Star, and how did INTL FCStone Financial help?

INTL FCStone’s commitment to providing world-class solutions across the financial landscape drives business growth. Guided by teamwork and a core philosophy of providing the best service, products and market access, we’ve grown rapidly into a Fortune 500 company. By adhering to these principles, I provide comprehensive solutions for our clients and effectively manage risk on a global scale as part of a high-level team.

In fact, since my appointment to a senior role on the European Market Making desk in 2013, my team’s client base has grown by more than 85%, helping INTL FCStone Financial to become the No. 1 ranked market maker in OTC ADRs and foreign stocks by dollar value traded in 2015, according to Bloomberg.

What is your perspective on being a successful woman working in financial markets, and what is your advice to those who may strive for this?

Mentorship is an important factor for success in the business world, and it is no more evident than in finance and banking. From understanding complex products and markets to developing relationships with managers, trading partners and clients, navigating the financial industry can be daunting. I have been very fortunate to learn from some of the brightest women on the Street and across multiple industry sectors, and feel an incredible sense of gratitude for their investment in me, both as a professional and a friend. As my career advances, I seek out young professional women to mentor, and urge my industry colleagues to do the same. Additionally, women just starting out in finance should do everything possible to secure a mentor. The right relationships often lead to incredible opportunities!