As Concepcion Cacho from our Manila team prepares for her well-deserved retirement in 2025, we reflect on her 16-year career at the Financial Times. Starting as a Web Production Editor in 2008, Concepcion brought dedication, integrity, and a collaborative spirit that continues to inspire her colleagues and will define her lasting legacy at FT Manila.
What has kept Concepcion at the FT for nearly two decades? “It’s definitely the people,” she says, crediting her team for their brilliance, humor, and unwavering support. As she looks back, Concepcion appreciates the FT as a community that values growth and camaraderie, highlighting the meaningful connections and experiences she has built throughout her career with us.
Can you share how your journey with Financial Times started? What initially attracted you to the company?
- “My journey with the Financial Times began in a pretty simple way. I was in between jobs and exploring my next opportunity when a former colleague, who had already joined FT, reached out and encouraged me to apply. Coming from a similar line of business, the opportunity felt like a natural progression, and I haven’t looked back since!”
What key lessons have you learned that helped shape your professional growth?
- “Reading has been a big part of my growth, whether it’s magazines, books, or online materials, it all adds up. Consulting with colleagues and attending the seminars offered by FT also played a huge role in shaping my professional journey. But it’s not just about learning; it’s about applying yourself to the job and drawing lessons not only from school but from life in general. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being a team player and respecting others’ opinions, even when you don’t agree with them.”
What has kept you at the FT for all this time?
- “It’s definitely the people. Our team has some of the brightest minds, and the quirkiest sense of humor! They make every day unique and fun.”
Who has been your biggest inspiration or mentor within the company?
- “I can’t pinpoint just one mentor because it’s been a collective effort. Our team manager, team lead, and my immediate supervisor have all played a significant role in guiding me through my tasks. Each of them has contributed to my growth in different ways.”
What advice would you give to employees who are just starting their careers at FT?
- “My advice to employees starting their journey at FT is simple: stay true to the company values, build good relationships with your colleagues, and make an effort to work well with others. Take advantage of the talks and seminars, there’s always something to learn. Most importantly, aim to be the best at what you do, and stay humble along the way.”
The FT's values are Ambition, Inclusion, Integrity, Curiosity, Trust and Subscriber Focused. In relation to your role at the FT which of these values speaks to you most and why?
- “Integrity resonates with me the most. It speaks volumes about who a person truly is on the inside. When someone embodies integrity, they are not only reliable but also earn the trust of others, a quality that’s invaluable in both personal and professional relationships.”
At the FT, we aim to foster an environment where employees thrive and build lasting careers. With an average tenure of over seven years, many of our team members have dedicated decades to the organisation, using their time here to grow professionally, develop their skills, and take on new challenges. Along the way, they form meaningful connections with colleagues and play an integral role in shaping the FT’s ongoing success and maintaining its reputation for excellence in the industry. This longevity reflects not only the opportunities available but also the strong sense of community and purpose that defines working at the FT.
To build a newsworthy career at the FT and start your journey with us. Check out our latest vacancies here.