Kieran Prior: The Most Remarkable Trader on the Street

Do you know the story of Goldman’s prop trader with a 238 IQ?

This is the most remarkable story I have read about Wall Street firms in a long time...I like to give Goldman grief because they are probably the best, and this story shows why.

Simply remarkable, and probably not what you think....with a cameo from John Thornton…

Kieran Prior: Goldman Sach’s whiz-kid wheeler dealer
Times Online
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My name is Kieran Prior, I am an equities trader at Goldman Sachs, where I have worked for six years. Before this I studied economics at the University of Manchester where I received a 2:1. I have secondary dystonia which affects my motor skills.

My choice of university was, for the most part, determined by academic reputation, but from a practical point of view, its location meant that I could stay at home while I studied. I wanted to challenge myself in every possible way against the best students and ultimately get the best job. I am fortunate to have found my course stimulating and exciting while still being able to make lifelong friendships with my course mates. In order to complete my studies I had extra time for exams and assessments, and I also had a scribe during lectures which I sourced myself.

It has been one of my life’s principles that my disability would not rule my life choices. When I decided I wanted to be a trader, I simply did not listen to those who said it couldn’t be done or that I was wasting my time. Instead, I made it my life’s purpose to become a trader. Employment Opportunities helped me find the company websites and details of how to apply. I applied to many of the investment banks but had a clear agenda to join Goldman Sachs after meeting some of their representatives.

I mentioned on my application form that I was registered disabled and they got in touch to ask if there were any adjustments and support I might need during the selection process. I used to get very tired in the afternoon when I was at University and I knew that after lunch I would not be able to communicate as effectively at interview. I asked if I could just attend the morning interviews and then come back on a separate day to complete the schedule, which I did.

When I started work, I had my desk raised and I have a clicker phone and a trackball mouse. When I first joined I had a helper who came in to assist me at lunchtime but I don’t need this anymore.

In my six-year career, I have found my colleagues to be both extremely helpful and intelligent. The culture of the firm allows a diverse group of talented individuals to work together towards a common goal. I have always considered myself to be a trader, who happens to be disabled, rather than a disabled individual who is a trader. It is this that I believe every disabled person should consider: that you should contribute to society through whatever means you have at your disposal first, and consider yourself to be disabled as secondary.

National Bureau for Students with Disabilities
Kieran’s Profile
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The content contained in this blog represents the opinions of 1440 Wall Street. This commentary in no way constitutes a solicitation of business or investment advice. It is intended solely for the entertainment of the reader, and the author. No Position

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