Northwestern Scholar Earns Internship at Deutsche Bank, Aims to Innovate in Finance
Zachary Oliva, a junior at Northwestern University studying law and journalism, is determined to create meaningful change in the world by bringing fresh, non-traditional perspectives to the finance industry. He plans to strengthen his understanding of the field through an upcoming summer internship at Deutsche Bank.
In his freshman year, Posse helped Zach secure a position as a functions analyst at Oaktree Capital. His passion for finance continued to grow, and with the support of Posse’s Executive Leadership Program, Zach furthered his career by landing a role at BNP Paribas.
Posse has given me the confidence to explore opportunities I might not have traditionally considered. It’s inspired me to make a tangible impact on the world.
Now, as Zach prepares to start his new role at Deutsche Bank, he is focused on disrupting the traditional norms of finance. He aims to bring a unique perspective that could drive lasting change. Zach explains, “There is an accepted way of doing things in finance, and it’s rarely challenged because it makes money. But the truth is, it makes money until it doesn’t.”
As the first person in his family to break into the corporate world and as someone with a deep passion for the arts—evidenced by his roles as editor-in-chief of Northwestern’s Scene + Heard and director of events at WNUR 89.3 FM—Zach is committed to diversifying the voices in finance. He hopes to highlight the potential for meaningful change by introducing new ideas and perspectives.
“It’s important to provide investment opportunities for underrepresented regions,” Zach says. “Historically, Western businesses have ignored not only the tangible economic improvements but also the suffering these investments can cause in those regions.”
Looking ahead, Zach’s long-term goal is to open an asset management firm focused on impact investing in Gaza, post-Soviet countries, and regions of Southeast Asia and Africa.
Reflecting on his upcoming role at Deutsche Bank and the journey that led him there, Zach credits Posse for playing a pivotal role in his success.
“Posse not only helped me secure internships but also provided a sense of community at Northwestern,” he says. “Posse has given me the confidence to explore opportunities I might not have traditionally considered. It’s inspired me to make a tangible impact on the world.”
