Get to know your BANJO BDM:
In Converstation
with Frankie
Frances Rikard-Bell
Key Accounts and Strategic Partnerships Manager
Why Banjo?
The people. What originally drew me to Banjo was the idea of working for a small finance business helping SMEs. But what keeps me here every day are the people who work at Banjo and the goal we’re jointly working towards.
Favourite part of your job at Banjo?
I love working with nice, down to earth, smart and ambitious people – both client side and colleagues.
Best advice you've ever received?
Do you the small things well and the big things will come.
Historical/celebrity figure you’d like to meet?
Pat Rafter.
The skill you’re currently working on improving?
My Spanish – languages have always been a battle for me to learn. But I keep plugging away at my (no bueno) Spanish.
How do you handle a tough negotiation?
I do my best to stay calm and listen to the other person, if you don’t understand their position, then you can’t negotiate.
What's your proudest professional achievement?
I’m proud of being able to help clients everyday. Its one of the benefits of being on the client facing side of the business and seeing and hearing the impact we have.
Favourite way to unwind after a big day?
Glass of wine and catch ups with mates.
If you weren't in finance, what career would you choose?
I’d probably be a grain trader. I always thought I’d end up in Agriculture, maybe I still will.
Best networking tip?
People are interesting, go and meet as many people as you can and make meaningful connections. It gets easier and more fun the more you do it.
If you could have lunch with anyone in the industry, who would it be?
I’d love to sit down with Josh Frydenberg and pick his brain about all things finance and economics.
What's one thing you can't live without during the workday?
My phone – I'm constantly chatting away.
What’s the last book you read?
Freezing Order – Bill Browder.
How do you stay updated with industry trends?
The AFR, podcasts and conversations with people in my network.
Favourite travel destination?
Canada. I lived there for a few years and am completely obsessed.
What's your go-to karaoke song
Summer of '69.
Any hidden talents?
I can play the piano.
What's your favourite business quote?
"Just do it"– Nike
I read the book Shoe Dog a few years ago and love the Nike story.
What's one app you can't live without?
Audible – I love listening to audiobooks while I drive, run, or travel.
What’s your morning routine?
An ocean swim or bike ride with mates, followed by coffee.
What's the best way to handle client feedback?
I believe client feedback should be shared with the business. The positive feedback should be celebrated, and the negative feedback should be learned from.
Favourite hobby outside of work?
Skiing.
How do you celebrate a big win?
The occasional fancy lunch, but more often than not – just celebrating with the team.
Best advice for someone starting in the finance industry?
Be a "yes" person to opportunities that come your way—get involved in different projects, jobs, and networking. Also, make sure to work for a small business at some point in your career; you can learn more there than in a large organisation.
What's your favourite productivity hack?
I work best under a time crunch, so I break down tasks into ‘urgent’ mini-tasks. This approach helps me stay focused and reduces procrastination.
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