Cocktails With – SASHA SPENCE
Style Observer (SO): How would you describe Sasha-Marie Spence in a few sentences?
Sasha Spence (SS): I would describe myself as thoughtful, disciplined, and quietly ambitious, but also warm, sociable, and genuinely fun to be around. I connect easily with people, enjoy good conversation, and bring positive energy into the spaces I am in. I value excellence and integrity, but I also believe work is better when there is balance, laughter, and strong relationships.
SO: How has your career journey been thus far? Any regrets?
SS: My career journey has been both progressive and intentional. I joined NCB in February 2018 as a lobby officer, where I built a strong foundation in customer service and operations. In December 2018, I was promoted to business development representative, a role in which I excelled and was recognised as Top BDR for two consecutive years. During that period, I also achieved first place in Diamond Club and second place in Platinum Club, along with receiving multiple performance awards.
In October 2022, I transitioned into private banking as a private client account executive, where I deepened my focus on relationship management, portfolio growth, and providing tailored financial solutions for high-net-worth clients. In March 2025, I was promoted to senior private client executive, and I now manage the private banking centres for the Fairview and Mandeville branches.
Each stage of my journey has shaped me, teaching me discipline, resilience, and how to work with people while delivering strong results.
Any regrets? I do not live with regrets, but I have learned from moments when I stayed in my comfort zone longer than I should have. Becoming aware of that pushed me to step outside of it, build confidence, and grow in ways I did not expect. The challenges I once feared ended up shaping me into the person I needed to become to achieve my goals.
SO: If you knew then what you know now…
SS: I would have trusted myself sooner. I spent too much time waiting to feel fully ready, but growth happens while you are moving. Confidence is built through experience, not delay. I also believe that to maximise your potential, having a role model, a mentor, and a coach can make a meaningful difference.
SO: Why banking and finance?
SS: Banking and finance place me at the intersection of people, planning, and possibility. It is not just about numbers, it is about helping individuals and families create structure, stability, and long-term opportunity.
SO: What are the little pleasures you enjoy as a banker?
SS: I enjoy the quiet wins, seeing a client reach a milestone, a deal come together, or my portfolio grow through strong relationships. I also value interacting with leaders and entrepreneurs and learning from their vision and outlook. Most of all, I find fulfilment in helping clients build their futures, preserve wealth, and create legacies for their families.
SO: What advances in the banking sector impress you most?
SS: Digital transformation stands out to me. Innovations such as mobile banking, advanced data analytics, and enhanced security systems have transformed the customer experience while improving efficiency behind the scenes. What I find especially impressive is how technology supports more personalised, client-focused service while still keeping human relationships at the centre of banking.
SO: What are you drinking today?
PR: I’m having an Appleton Mai Tai.
SO: How do you unwind?
SS: I unwind by slowing down intentionally. I love going to Doctor’s Cave Beach early in the morning to listen to the ocean while everything is still quiet; it helps me reset mentally. I usually follow that with a sauna session there to fully relax my body. At home, I unwind by watching series such as Peaky Blinders, Bridgerton, and The Rookie, which I am currently rewatching while waiting on new releases. I also enjoy journalling and quiet moments that allow me to recharge.
SO: What are you currently listening to?
SS: It depends on my mood. Some days it is gospel or R&B, other days it is dancehall. Lately, I have been enjoying Taylor Swift’s
Life of a Showgirl, Cardi B’s Am I the Drama?, and love songs by artistes like Toni Braxton and Beyoncé. I am definitely a lover at heart, so I enjoy music that speaks to emotion as much as energy.
SO: Share with us the title of the last book you read
SS: From Drift to Drive by Chris Robinson, which was recommended to me by a colleague. The book focuses on breaking out of complacency and moving with intention. I appreciated its message about staying disciplined, sharpening focus, and being deliberate about personal and professional growth.
SO: How would you describe your fashion style?
SS: Classic with a modern edge. I gravitate toward clean lines and elegant pieces that feel polished without being overdone. My style reflects how I carry myself: Confident, feminine, and intentional.
SO: What are your travel must-haves?
SS: My Samsung headphones, a power bank, my credit card, wipes, and skincare essentials are non-negotiable. I also travel with a good book or playlist and a clear itinerary, enough structure to feel prepared while still leaving room for discovery.
SO: Share a few of the most memorable countries you’ve visited.
SS: London stands out for its history and energy, walking through the city, seeing iconic landmarks, and experiencing how past and present blend so seamlessly was unforgettable. Panama left a strong impression because I experienced both the modern city and the charm of the old town and visited Taboga Island. Christmas in Canada was memorable for its winter atmosphere, festive traditions, and seasonal charm. My trips to Miami with my sister are always highlights, filled with good food, beach days, and time to relax and reset.
SO: Share with us your creature comforts.
SS: My creature comforts are the small things that help me feel grounded and at ease. A consistent exercise routine, early mornings, quality bedding, familiar fragrances, warm meals, and a calm environment all matter to me. I appreciate simple comforts and routines that create balance and allow me to function at my best.
SO: What is your personal philosophy?
SS: Progress over perfection. I believe in doing my best with what I have, staying teachable, and allowing room for grace. Growth does not have to be dramatic to be meaningful, it simply has to be intentional!
Petrona Irving, bartender, Ooshan Bar and Restaurant, Tryall Club serves up an Appleton Mai Tai. Aceion Cunningham