Not every Market Data career starts with a degree. Some begin with hands-on experience, a willingness to learn, and a drive to make an impact. That’s exactly how Sarah Bryant built her career – from an apprentice at Fidelity to a leadership role in Market Data.
In this Q&A, we spoke with Sarah about her career journey, life at Datagum, and what keeps her busy outside of work.
Let’s start at the beginning. How did you get into Market Data?
Sarah: I started my career at Fidelity International as an apprentice within the Market Data team back in 2014. From the moment I stepped into the industry, I knew it was the right fit for me. There’s something about the complexity of Market Data that I find really engaging – it’s constantly evolving, and no two days are the same.
You’ve had an impressive career so far. What’s a moment you’re particularly proud of?
Sarah: Passing my GCP ACE exam while at Deutsche Bank was a huge milestone for me, especially as they were rolling out Google Cloud across the company at the time. Another standout moment was being promoted to Assistant Vice President at Deutsche Bank – it was a recognition of all the hard work I’d put in over the years, and it was a big step forward in my career.
Your journey is quite different from many in the industry. What’s something people might not expect?
Sarah: I don’t have a degree – I started as an apprentice, and I’ve built my career through hands-on experience. It’s proof that there are multiple ways to succeed in Market Data. Now, with 9+ years in the industry, I can confidently say that experience, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are just as valuable as formal education.
Fast forward to today – what made you join Datagum, and what excites you about working here?
Sarah: Joining Datagum was a big decision. As a new parent, I needed flexibility – something that’s not always easy to find in this industry. But Datagum went above and beyond, creating a part-time role that allowed me to balance work and childcare. That kind of support made all the difference.
It’s also a completely different pace from anywhere I’ve worked before. The speed, the opportunities, the variety – it’s fast-moving and dynamic, and that’s what makes it exciting.
What’s one skill you’ve developed or strengthened since joining?
Sarah: Presenting to an audience. After taking time off for maternity leave, I felt my self-confidence had taken a hit. But at Datagum, I’ve had so many opportunities to present and engage with my team and clients. It’s been a great way to rebuild that confidence and sharpen my communication skills.
In your experience, what’s one of the biggest challenges in Market Data that people don’t talk about enough?
Sarah: Transparency – both in terms of costs and data usage across different business areas. It’s something that’s discussed often, but it remains a significant challenge for many companies. Having clear visibility into how Market Data is being consumed and what’s actually being paid for is crucial for firms looking to optimise their strategy.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Market Data?
Sarah: There are so many different routes you can take – administration, technology, business management, vendor management, consultancy, software development – the list goes on. My advice? Try different areas within your team and find what aligns best with your skillset. There’s something for everyone in Market Data if you’re willing to explore.
Shifting gears, what do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any unexpected hobbies?
Sarah: Outside of work, I spend most of my time making memories with my son, walking our dogs, or baking (I’m currently obsessed with sourdough!). But one hobby that surprises people is Pole Fitness – I’ve been training for 2.5 years, and I’m hoping to compete in May 2025.
Any book, podcast, or documentary recommendations?
Sarah: I’d recommend the podcast ‘Daily Boost.’ It’s a great listen if you want to work on maintaining a positive mindset – it’s helped me a lot! It’s all about staying motivated, taking small daily steps towards your goals, and building confidence – which is something that’s been really valuable for me, especially after returning to work post-maternity leave.
Sarah’s journey proves there’s no single path to success in Market Data. Whether it’s breaking into the industry as an apprentice, balancing work and parenthood, or thriving in a fast-paced role, she embodies the adaptability and determination that define Datagum. Her story is just one of many – stay tuned as we introduce more of the personalities behind Datagum.
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