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Maria de Velasco
Play Business Co-founder & Structuring Director - MBA MIT Sloan
Professional Background
Maria Fernanda de Velasco is an accomplished finance professional with a wealth of experience in banking and management. Currently serving as the Chief Structuring Director at Play Business, she spearheads various initiatives to optimize financial performance and enhance business strategies. Her perspective is shaped by her rich experience in corporate banking, where she honed her analytical and strategic skills in fast-paced environments.
Before her current role at Play Business, Maria built a strong foundation in global banking and finance at prestigious institutions such as HSBC and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. As an Associate in the Corporate Banking division focused on Latin America (excluding Brazil) at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, she gained invaluable insights into the diverse financial landscapes of emerging markets. Her previous positions at HSBC ranged from Global Banking Analyst to Global Banking Associate, providing her with extensive experience in managing complex financial transactions and fostering client relationships.
In addition to her impressive professional background, Maria was recognized for her dedication to innovation and leadership as a Legatum Fellow at the MIT Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship. This role allowed her to engage with brilliant minds in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, tracking the intersection of business practices and social impact.
Education and Achievements
Maria's educational journey laid the groundwork for her successful career in finance and management. She achieved her Bachelor of Arts in Finance from the esteemed Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, a leading institution known for its rigorous academic programs and a strong emphasis on preparing students for leadership roles in business.
Further enhancing her academic credentials, Maria earned her Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan School of Management. Graduating in 2017, Maria was not just a student but also a contributor to the vibrant MIT community, engaging in discussions that bridged the gap between business strategies and sustainable development.
Her time at MIT was marked by participation in transformative projects that fostered her entrepreneurial spirit and allowed her to explore innovative solutions to complex challenges in the finance sector. Maria's association with prestigious fellowships, including the MasterCard Foundation Fellowship during her MBA, underscores her commitment to leveraging finance for social good and her dedication to developing inclusive economic models.
Notable Achievements
Maria's career is dotted with significant milestones and contributions that highlight her expertise and leadership in the finance industry. As she progressed from a trainee at HSBC Global Banking and Markets to Chief Structuring Director, she consistently demonstrated an ability to navigate complex financial landscapes with ease.
Notably, her impactful roles in major international banking institutions positioned her as a leader within the industry, showcasing her strong foundation in corporate finance and strategic banking. Furthermore, her experience as a fellow at two prestigious institutions emphasizes her drive toward understanding the broader implications of finance beyond traditional metrics of success.
Maria's dedication to financial education and mentorship speaks volumes about her character. She consistently seeks to uplift others, sharing her knowledge and experiences with both her colleagues and the next generation of finance professionals. Through her work, she advocates for diversity and inclusion within the finance sector, aiming to create pathways for underrepresented communities in business.
Today, Maria continues to thrive in her role at Play Business, leveraging her extensive background and education to implement innovative solutions that drive financial success and business growth. With a focus on strategic investment, deep market analysis, and an unyielding commitment to excellence, Maria Fernanda de Velasco is a name synonymous with success and leadership in finance.
