Having cut her teeth in European trading technology with initial experience at agency broker Instinet, Sakeena spent the subsequent few years honing her industry knowledge at Chi-X Europe, which became the largest pan-European equities trading venue before being bought by BATS Global Markets. She played a key part in technology initiatives including Sponsored Access and the Chi-Delta non-displayed order book (now CXE Dark, Europe’s largest non-display equities book).
Since moving to Aquis Exchange, the subscriptions-based equities exchange, Sakeena was promoted to the role of Client Relationship Manager and has built valuable relationships with trading firms and technology providers alike. She is a key point of liaison within Aquis and played a vital part in its timely launch. She also oversaw the creation of the Company’s internal management information system, working with Aquis’ development team to create a suite of reports, allowing better client service and enhancing the Company’s technology sales package.
An English graduate from Queen Mary, University of London, she also holds a Certificate in Investment from the CISI, for which she received the ‘Outstanding Achievement award’ for scoring the national joint highest result.
Outside work, Sakeena chairs the Women’s Network at the British Pakistan Foundation (BPF), promoting the development of British Pakistani women via its Inspirational Women Speaker Series, workshops and networking opportunities.
Sakeena is a Level 1 qualified football coach and has played for Tower Hamlets Ladies. She has previously volunteered to deliver coaching sessions for local schoolgirls and the Queen Mary Women’s Football Club, where she played whilst at University. Most recently, she participated on the refereeing team at a football match in aid of Cancer Research UK, organised by the Rotary Club of Harrow.
She aspires to reach management and board level in the financial services, and continue making a positive difference to the industry.