On the commercial banking graduate scheme, how is the work life balance?

Good Evening

My name is Jamie and I'm currently studying (Msc) International Banking & Finance. I am currently in the process of applying to the Risk Management programme, and I was wondering if you could tell me about the certain chartered elements/examinations that graduates are exposed to?

Thanks in advance
Jamie Gallagher

Hi Jamie, thank you for your question! Throughout the Risk Management graduate scheme you will be required to complete the ICA qualification in international governance and compliance - consisting of three modules each with a written task. This will be undertaken in the first year of the graduate scheme alongside your day to day role. Hope this answers your question!

Hi Cameron, just to add to Jamie's question, how did you find studying/taking the ICA qualification alongside the job? Was it easy to find time to work on it?

Thanks Cameron, I shall conduct my research into this qualification throughout the remainder of the semester. Thank you for your assistance!

Hi Hazel - I have only just started the ICA qualification myself, however I have found that with good time management I can carve out some time on a weekly basis to read over the materials and prepare myself for the upcoming assessments. You are also entitled to 2 study days per assessment (6 total) in order to work on this. Depending on your line manager/work load capacity it shouldn't be an issue to study for the qualification alongside your normal role. Hope this helps!

Hi Cameron, yes that does help, thank you!

How does new graduate trainees work in this era of Covid 19. Hybrid working pattern where some day in office and some at home?

Hi Ademola - there is no mandatory requirement for you to relocate anymore due to the covid situation. Although going into the office will help your development/ability to network with other colleagues, I do believe you could conduct the graduate scheme virtually if you desired to do so. Hope this answers your question!

Cameron: Please could you tell me a little bit more about your rotations in the risk grad scheme

Hi Cameron, how was it settling into a new work place as well as a new home?

James - the Risk Graduate Scheme is made up of 4 x 6 month placements, each with a separate theme, allowing you to receive broad exposure to various areas of the risk department and see first hand how Risks and identified and mitigated across the different departments. This is to allow you to become a holistic Risk Manager and gives you the opportunity to decide what you like/don't like going forward.

Awesome, thank you for the info. What sort of themes would be given to each placement?