For Young Professionals

David Goldfeld

Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting & Economics, University of Melbourne

Photo of Young Ambassador David Goldfeld

2020 Young Ambassador David Goldfeld, Graduate, UBank

I decided to move to Sydney to begin my career in banking and finance, choosing to go into financial services because I wanted to empower everyday Australians to reach significant milestones in their lives. In saying that, one week after the Royal Commission report was released, I became a Graduate at NAB and intensely questioned whether I was starting my career in the right industry as the findings were against my values. However, with time I discovered and consequently volunteered for social impact initiatives that existed within NAB (The African Australian Inclusion Program) and financial services. I realised that although the findings were confronting, the industry does some incredible work in empowering the community in ethical ways. 

As a Young Ambassador I hope to professionally and personally develop whilst building a strong ethical foundation for any career but one specifically in the banking and finance industry. Through the exposure to industry elders, industry leaders, the other Young Ambassadors and those who have taken the Oath, I will hopefully be able to drive ethical practices throughout my career and make a significant community impact. 

These are confronting times, however, it has provided the financial services industry with the opportunity to regain community confidence and demonstrate they have learned their lesson from the Royal Commission. This is their redemption moment. So far, we have seen the big four banks take on a community-first mindset by pausing mortgage payments, deferring business loans and offer other options to support the community. These are the changes I was hoping to see in a post-Hayne world. However, there is more to consider. For example, what are the long-term implications of a mortgage pause on an individual’s credit rating? How do we ensure that these short term solutions will not disadvantage those who exercise them? I hope these questions are being considered by the respective senior executives.   

Beyond the COVID-19 crisis, I hope this community-first mindset continues and this is how the community views the industry.

The Oath

  • Trust is the foundation of my profession.
  • I will serve all interests in good faith.
  • I will compete with honour.
  • I will pursue my ends with ethical restraint.
  • I will help create a sustainable future.
  • I will help create a more just society.
  • I will speak out against wrongdoing and support others who do the same.
  • I will accept responsibility for my actions.
  • In these and all other matters;
    My word is my bond.