FLASH FRIDAY is a weekly content series looking at the past, present and future of capital markets trading and technology. FLASH FRIDAY is sponsored by Instinet, a Nomura company.
Robinhood Markets has made a splash in the retail brokerage business since launching its mobile app in 2015, with a mission to “democratize finance for all.” At year-end 2023, Robinhood had 10.9 monthly active users, and the median age of its customers was 34, compared with 58 for incumbent brokerage firms.
In addition to young investors trading on Robinhood, there are of course young people behind the app, who have ideas and visions for their own future, as well as the future of the business. So please meet this quartet of Robinhood’s Gen Zers.
Santiago Murrillo
Describe your educational background and work experience, including current role/responsibilities.
I studied business administration, and had the opportunity to work at multiple finance organizations performing various roles, from Relationship Management to Active Trading. Fast forward to now, I’m a Senior Manager at Robinhood, overseeing customer experience operation and ensuring our financial products meet client needs effectively.
How did you get interested in the finance industry?
Growing up my family did not know much about finance or money management. When I had a chance to work a part time job at a bank during college and had a sneak peek into the world of finance I immediately got hooked! From savings, to credit, to multi-leg options strategies, I developed a passion for learning and teaching other about the intricate world of finance.
What is the best aspect of your job?
The ‘aha!’ moments. Seeing customers light up because our products made their financial life easier is priceless. Plus, I get to work with a bunch of brilliant minds who challenge me and keep the innovation spark alive.
What do you like to do outside work?
When I’m not trying to solve the puzzle of our organization’s operations, you’ll find me traveling. I have a goal to visit all 50 states – I’m at 24! I’m also a bit of a bookworm, anything from novels to leadership and classic literature.
Is it true Gen Z hates to talk on the phone?
Guilty as charged – kind of! It’s not that we hate talking on the phone; it’s just that we love the efficiency of texting and messaging. But if you catch me on a call, I promise I won’t hang up… unless it’s a telemarketer!
Flash forward 20 years: What does your career look like?
In 20 years, I see myself mentoring up-and-coming talent and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in finance. The dream is to leave a legacy of innovation and inclusion in the industry.
Jacob Sansbury
Describe your educational background and work experience, including current role/responsibilities.
I started my journey in tech at a young age, teaching myself PHP in third grade. This early passion led me to write code every day through high school and eventually land my first full-time job at a local startup during my sophomore year of college. My professional career took a significant turn when I joined Bridgewater Associates in my Junior year of high school, learning from some of the brightest minds in the industry. My entrepreneurial spirit then led me to San Francisco, where I joined a small startup and Nvidia, faced challenges, and eventually started my own company, Pluto.
Currently, I am a Technologist at Robinhood, working closely with the best technical and business leaders to chart a path towards harnessing the power of GenAI. My role has allowed me to work on and conceptualize some truly game-changing products for Robinhood customers, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
How did you get interested in the finance industry?
My interest in finance and fintech asset management was sparked by my time at Bridgewater Associates and my entrepreneurial ventures. These experiences gave me a deep understanding of financial systems and the challenges of managing money effectively, which led to the founding of Pluto.
What is the best aspect of your job?
The best aspect of my job is the opportunity to lead and collaborate with a talented team while driving innovation in the financial technology space. I enjoy the blend of strategy and execution and the chance to make a tangible impact on the industry. I still get to write code almost every day!
What do you like to do outside work?
Outside work, I have a passion for motorsport and spend a couple weekends per month driving at local raceways like Sonoma and Thunder Hill.
What is your social media platform of choice?
X (@jsnnsa)
Is it true Gen Z hates to talk on the phone?
It is generally true that Gen Z prefers texting and messaging over talking on the phone but I love to just pick up the phone and chat. I’d also love to see voice messages become more commonplace.
Flash forward 20 years: What does your career look like?
In 20 years, I envision myself having successfully founded and scaled multiple ventures. I aim to continue building products that make a positive impact and lead innovative teams.
Flash forward 20 years: What does the industry look like?
Everyone will have an AI agent in their pocket with capabilities that make the most exclusive family offices of today’s billionaires look barbaric.
How optimistic are you in your generation’s ability to step up and lead (companies, industries, governments) when the time comes?
I am optimistic. Given our adaptability, tech-savviness, and drive for innovation, we are well-equipped to take on leadership roles across various sectors, including companies, industries, and governments.
Kara McDade
Describe your educational background and work experience, including current role/responsibilities.
I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations & Leadership Ethics and began my career in the supply chain management industry. I soon transitioned to the startup world, driven by my passion for innovation. Currently, I am a licensed Customer Experience Team Lead, where my daily responsibilities include building out more efficient processes that enable me to coach agents and help them chart their career paths, both short-term and long-term.
How did you get interested in the finance industry?
My interest in finance and fintech stems from my entrepreneurial background, relentless curiosity, and innovative mindset, all fueled by the financial struggles I faced growing up in a lower-middle class income household. These experiences have profoundly shaped my perspective, driving me to strive for better financial stability for myself and my future family.
What is the best aspect of your job?
The best part of my job is coaching others and mentoring them towards their future career goals, while being part of a dynamic leadership team. This team is dedicated to making our processes more efficient and effective for our customers.
What do you like to do outside work?
I enjoy trail running, snowboarding with friends, and engaging in any outdoor activities. I also love spending quality time with family and friends and experimenting in the kitchen to create the next best dinner dish.
What is your social media platform of choice?
Instagram. It allows me to stay connected with friends, both near and far, regardless of how often I see them in person. I also enjoy following inspirational influencers like Marie Forleo and Whitney Wolfe, who motivate me to push my limits in my career and personal life.
Flash forward 20 years: What does your career look like?
In 20 years, I envision myself as a director of a tech startup company, specializing in consulting for small startups with a headcount of four or fewer. I will be at the forefront of innovation, constantly tinkering with new ideas and tools that define the era. I also dream of being a mom, which is a career in itself!
Brandon White
Briefly describe your educational background and work experience, including current role/responsibilities.
Bachelors of Art & Science at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Major: Political Science / Minor: Sociology Work Experience: Walmart / Sam’s Club / Scottrade / TD Ameritrade / Charles Schwab / Robinhood Role: Advanced Services Team Lead.
In my current role, I develop internal talent at Robinhood and explain and handle complex brokerage concepts internally and for clients. I also work with engineers and the product team to assist improvement of current offerings and launches of new products and services.
How did you get interested in the finance industry?
I had an internship at the City of Chicago Treasurer’s Office in high school. Also, by visiting the Federal Board of Trade.
What is the best aspect of your job?
Assisting in the growth, confidence, maturity of the internal talent of Robinhood and also with our customer base. Teaching financial literacy. Assisting in the financial freedom journey of customers who are new to investing.
Any notable mentors that you’d like to recognize?
John Black and Jermaine Tart. They took my training wheels off and allowed me to absorb the financial markets knowledge that they have.
What do you like to do outside work?
Work out. Take walks. Travel. Play sports and study.
What is your social media platform of choice?
Instagram, because it’s a simple platform that engages large communities through pictures and videos. When used correctly, Instagram can possess a wealth of ideas, strategies, motivation and overall awareness of finance and the world at large.
Is it true Gen Z hates to talk on the phone?
Nope. I love to talk on the phone! I hate texting!
Flash forward 20 years: What does your career look like?
Possessing a CFP and teaching financial freedom for free.
How optimistic are you in your generation’s ability to step up and lead (companies, industries, governments) when the time comes?
Very optimistic. Our generation isn’t afraid to speak up and take chances. Entrepreneurship and ownership is becoming more openly acknowledged as a path of financial freedom. With the ease of finding information and tools to succeed, I feel very confident that this continues to inspire creativity and disruption for many industries. There is definitely more fuel to drive diversity of ideas and perspectives from the dreamers, scholars and go-getters from Gen Z!
