IN the fast-paced world of finance, where numbers dictate the game and strategy defines success, Victoria Parague has made her mark as a force to be reckoned with. As the assistant manager of treasury & trading at Mayberry, her role is not just about figures and forecasts — it’s about making impactful decisions that drive the company forward. Ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD) this year, she shared her journey, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her craft.

A typical workday for Parague is anything but ordinary. It begins with treasury management, overseeing cash flows, money market activities, and seamlessly transitions into trading in the markets. Market movements, news updates, and back-to-back calls with traders, brokers, clients, and colleagues keep her on her toes. With meetings, strategic analyses, and constant problem-solving, her role demands precision, confidence, and a keen understanding of market trends.

Despite the high-pressure environment, Parague thrives.

“Trading in the equity and fixed income markets for my company and clients is an honour and a passion,” she shared. “Market activity and movements excite me, especially when a well-thought-out trade yields a good risk-reward outcome. There’s nothing more fulfilling than making my clients happy and engaging in meaningful conversations across the industry.”

Parague’s love for investing started in high school. Though she studied both science and business, she always knew where her passion lay. Now, years later, she has turned that passion into a career that not only challenges her, but also allows her to make a significant impact.

“It’s been a great journey at Mayberry — challenging and rewarding at the same time,” she said.

“I’ve grown tremendously, both professionally and personally, and have had the opportunity to work with some amazing people.”

Contributing to both profitability and cash flow management, Parague plays a crucial part in Mayberry’s success.

“Being in trading means aggressive revenue targets, functioning as a market maker, and identifying opportunities that support other revenue teams,” she explained.

“Efficient treasury management is vital to the daily operations of a financial institution, and I take that responsibility very seriously.”

While the role comes with its fair share of challenges, especially during end-of-quarter periods, she approaches each hurdle with focus and determination. Prioritising tasks, staying calm under pressure, and pushing through with confidence are key to her success.

Parague credits her family as her biggest inspiration.

“They work hard and make their mark in their respective careers, which motivates me to do the same.”

She believes in the power of hard work and perseverance.

“As tough as things get, if you push through, the rewards will come,” she said.

Looking ahead, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy at Mayberry — one marked by innovation, strategic growth, and a positive work environment.

“I want to contribute to the company’s development with fresh ideas and strategies while also fostering a pleasant and supportive work culture,” she shared.

Finance, particularly trading and treasury, has traditionally been a male-dominated field, but Parague is determined to shift that narrative.

“There’s still a long way to go, but women are proving that they have the knowledge, skill, and resilience to succeed in this space,” she said.

“Being in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment means you have to assert yourself, be confident in your decisions, and continuously stay ahead of the game.”

Despite the challenges, she finds strength in pushing boundaries and inspiring other women to do the same.

“Women bring a unique perspective to the industry, and I hope to see more of us taking up leadership roles and changing the face of finance,” she said.

For Parague, IWD is about celebrating the multifaceted roles women play, from family life to professional achievements.

Her advice to young women looking to excel in their careers: “Be bold and confident. Stay true to yourself, remain gracious, and embrace challenges with an open mind. A positive mindset fuels better performance and can take you far. Keep learning, keep pushing, and above all, enjoy what you do.”

She added: “It’s incredibly rewarding to work for a company with so much potential and to be part of a team that supports and uplifts each other.”