Jada Aduda
Role: Senior Corporate Development Analyst, CME Group
“ When thinking about technology, there has been a lot of electronification in our industry, with many different products and different ways that these markets are traded. As things like AI begin to emerge, how can people trade better, get better spreads? It's very, very interesting to see how much has happened in the two years. It gets me in a weird way, a little excited for what the future's gonna look like because I, I talk to a lot of colleagues. There's a lot of people at CME who've been there for, you know, 10, 20, 30 years, and they've seen a lot of these changes. It'll just be amazing to see where we end up and with the company, you know, CME, but also that marketplace being like the cornerstone of like the global economy.”
NUFRIEND
Jada Aduda is a driven and accomplished first-generation Kenyan American who has carved a remarkable path from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, to Loyola University Chicago, and now excels in corporate development at CME Group. Born in Nairobi, Kenya, Jada immigrated to the United States with her family, seeking better opportunities. Growing up in Brooklyn Park, she witnessed the evolution of her community and navigated the challenges of being a trailblazer in her family. Jada pursued her higher education at Loyola University Chicago, majoring in Finance and Information Systems. Her hard work earned her a scholarship from CME Group, which played a pivotal role in shaping her career. Starting as an intern at Loop Capital, Jada quickly showcased her potential and dedication, leading to a full-time position. However, trusting her intuition, she chose to explore other opportunities and joined CME Group, where she now works as a Senior Corporate Development Analyst. In her role, she focuses on finding organic and inorganic growth opportunities for the company, contributing to strategic decision-making and driving the company's success. Jada's journey is marked by overcoming imposter syndrome, leveraging networking opportunities, and continuously striving to present her best case. Her work at CME Group involves analyzing competitive landscapes, assessing business opportunities, and collaborating with senior leaders and the board of directors. Beyond her professional achievements, Jada is passionate about giving back to her community and inspiring others. She actively engages with students and young professionals, sharing her experiences and providing guidance. Jada's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of trusting oneself in the pursuit of success.
INDUSTRY
CME Group plays a pivotal role in the financial services industry as a marketplace for the trading of futures and options. Futures and options are types of financial contracts that allow investors to buy or sell assets at predetermined prices in the future, helping businesses and individuals hedge against risks. CME Group operates some of the world's most significant exchanges and handles a diverse range of products including commodities, financial indices, and even weather derivatives. The company is integral to maintaining market stability and providing liquidity through its function as a clearinghouse, ensuring the fulfillment of trading contracts.
Within the financial services industry, corporate development focuses on identifying and executing strategic opportunities for growth. This includes mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and fostering business development initiatives. Corporate development teams analyze market trends, assess competitive landscapes, and perform detailed financial modeling to determine the viability of potential business ventures. These teams often work closely with senior executives to align business strategies with long-term corporate goals.
Jada,
Welcome to the Industry.
Welcome to NUFRIENDS.
