The Exciting World of Trade Finance

A Conversation with Maria P. Jordan

In our interview series spotlighting the talented people in trade finance, we speak with Maria P. Jordan, Senior Vice President of Trade Finance at Banc of California, who is a firm believer there’s plenty to be excited about – even for Gen Zers – in the constantly evolving field of trade finance.

How did you first find your way into trade finance? Was it planned, accidental, or somewhere in between?

Somewhere in between.  I was a platform person in the branch and someone from the International Dept., as it was known way back when, sat at my desk. We got to chatting and I asked her to let me know if there was an opening. Three weeks later, I began my career in International Trade and haven’t looked back.

What made you stay — and what keeps you motivated or engaged over time?

I love what I do and the people I have met along the way.  There is always something interesting happening and new things to learn.

What part of your work still energizes or inspires you?

The people I work with and some of the challenges in today’s economic environment.

If you could change one thing about the industry or how we work, what would it be?

Getting the current generation of workers to understand how much fun this industry is and not have them all want to work at hedge funds.

Tell us about a specific experience — a deal, project, challenge, or case — that taught you an important lesson. What was the lesson and how did it shape your approach?

A shipment of seafood that went awry and the applicant’s bank did not want to pay the beneficiary, even though all docs were in order.  This was a lesson to ensure that all t’s were crossed and i’s were dotted.

What advice would you offer to someone just starting their career in this field today?

To understand that this field is ever changing.  Regulations and economic conditions play a big role in this industry and can change quickly.  It may not be the highest paying job, but it is exciting.

What do you do outside of work that people might be surprised to learn?

I am pretty much an open book to family and friends, so don’t think I am very surprising.  I like to read and spend time with my family and friends.