\nPlease see the interview with Nana Khurodze \u2013 Associate Director, Senior Banker, Trade Facilitation Program, EBRD.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
First of all, please tell us about your success story, what stages you went through, what difficulties you faced and what stage you are at now<\/strong><\/p>\n
First of all, thank you for Inviting me to this Interview- I really hope that your readers will find my story Interesting.<\/p>\n
Currently I work as an Associate Director, Senior Banker, Trade Facilitation Programme (TFP), at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). I am responsible for developing of trade finance business of TFP partner banks in the Caucasus, Egypt, Turkey and Western Balkans. I am also leading technical cooperation projects supporting sustainable trade and the digitalisation of TFP partner banks in countries where the EBRD invests. Prior to joining EBRD, I led the Trade Finance Program of Asian Development Bank in the Caucasus region, Central Asia, Mongolia, and Pakistan, based in Manila. I also worked at HSBC (Georgia and Switzerland); TBC Bank; Bank of Georgia and Basisbank (Georgia).<\/p>\n
Since entering into my first job in 2006, I faced many challenges, but if I look back, I think main one was still at the initial stage. I wanted to have a career but at the same time had a 3-year daughter already and had to struggle with the idea of not being around her during the day.<\/p>\n
What was the biggest challenge on your career path, an obstacle that seemed insurmountable at first, but you were able to overcome?<\/strong><\/p>\n
Although by that time I had an experience of working and leaving abroad with my daughter, moving to Asian Development Bank In Manila, Philippines turned out to be more difficult than I was expecting. I had to adjust to new working environment and get used to the phsychology of the developmental Institution as previously I used to work at commercial banks; new climate, culture and had to overcome fear of flying as I started constant business travels there. I also had to help my daughter In starting new life, which Is not easy when you are a teenager. Sometimes it felt Impossible, but eventually we found happiness In the new place.<\/p>\n
What is your main motivation to keep moving forward?<\/strong><\/p>\n
It\u2019s Important for me to see the meaning In everything I do, including my job. I am Involved In the process of supporting global trade finance which Is the core element of building strong economies and at the same time it’s very dynamic. Personally, working with interesting people Inspires me, I like to explore new countries, cultures and meet with new partners and friends. Recently we are facing different types of crises globally and as you know, role of developmental organizations always Increases with the uncertainties around us. I am also happy to see how my daughter Is enjoying my new assignments and all of these Important aspects keep me moving forward.<\/p>\n
As we know, you are currently working with EBRD (European Bank for Reconstruction and Development). Tell us about your current activities there, what position and direction you work in.<\/strong><\/p>\n
At EBRD\u2019s TFP I manage program activities in Caucasus, Egypt, Western Balkans and Turkey. We provide guarantees and short term loans taking 100% risk on local banks for development of the import-export and factoring. Aside from this I am leading process of greening portfolios in all countries were TFP is currently presented and digitalization initiatives. With the financial support, I am also responsible for the\u00a0 knowledge sharing programs, providing technical assistance for capacity building events in various fields such as: environmental & social safeguards; AML\/Compliance streamline and trade and supply chain finance product development. For Instance we just recently arranged event discussing sustainability matters In partnership with ICC and NBG, which was well received by the financial sector of Georgia.<\/p>\n
Tell us a few words about your future plans, is there any initiative or project that you are planning to launch?<\/strong><\/p>\n
Currently I am working on arranging TFP Information Session and Awards Ceremony that will take place in Samarkand, during EBRD Annual Meeting in May. Forum will discuss latest developments in trade finance and we are expecting a lot of guests, so I am really hoping for the smooth and successful launch.<\/p>\n
Finally, limiting ourselves to the traditional question, what would you advise aspiring professionals and young people who are now taking their first career steps?<\/strong><\/p>\n
Well, I always say if you never try, you will never know. Very often I would take big steps which would seem unrealistic. So, my advice would be to take chances. Work hard and with passion, but please don\u2019t forget to live as well and live happily. Make sure you spend enough time doing things that you enjoy, with your family and take care of those that need your help, whether in your private or career life. Be graceful, take care of the nature and be mindful of better future for the next generation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>