Margaret I.

From Business and Psychology to Banking and Finance

My career journey has been full of twists and turns, but each move has been motivated by a passion for learning, helping, and growing. One of the moves that shaped me the most was becoming a residential advisor at university, where I learned how to be a leader, a team player, and a conflict resolver for a diverse group of students. I wanted to help them adapt to university life and create a sense of community among them. Another move that enriched me was working as a clinical administrator for a drugs and alcohol charity, where I improved my data, communication, and organisational skills. I was inspired by the charity’s mission and felt proud of being part of its impact. A third move that transformed me was joining the graduate scheme at Lloyds banking group, where I discovered a new career path in banking and finance. I was curious to explore a different sector and learn from experts in the field. I was also motivated by the diversity of the scheme and the potential for personal and professional growth.

I help improve personal current accounts for customers’ needs.

As a Product Manager in Personal Current Accounts, I thrive in a dynamic and rewarding role that leverages my analytical, creative, and interpersonal skills. I have been involved in projects that required me to scan the market for competitor movements or proposition changes that could affect our products or customers. For example, I recently started conducting an analysis of basic bank accounts, comparing them with our own offerings and identifying areas for improvement or differentiation. I also support wider product management responsibilities across the core team, such as closing audit actions, reviewing bank letters, and enhancing service processes. I enjoy collaborating with various stakeholders, both internal and external, to deliver solutions that meet customer needs and business objectives. I am always eager to learn new things and challenge myself.

One of the things I like the most about my current position as a Product Manager in Personal Current Accounts is the chance to support various projects that aim to create and improve products that meet customer needs and business goals. I enjoy being part of different stages of product development, such as market research, data analysis and feedback evaluation. I also enjoy working with different teams and stakeholders, such as risk, legal, and other product experts, to ensure a smooth and successful product delivery. I find it rewarding to see the results of my work and how it impacts customers and the business. I am always looking for ways to enhance customer satisfaction, increase retention, and drive growth.

Be flexible and adaptable in your career journey.

My top three tips would be: - Embrace new opportunities and experiences. You never know what you might learn or discover from venturing into the unknown or challenging yourself. Be ready to adapt and grow from different situations and perspectives. - Cultivate curiosity and eagerness to learn. Demonstrating that you can acquire new knowledge and skills in diverse domains and apply them effectively in your work will make you stand out. Seek feedback and guidance from others and always look for ways to improve yourself. - Take initiative and collaborate with others. Keep your eye out for interesting opportunities and be open to asking - asking questions, asking for support, asking for new opportunities. Show that you can work well with others and contribute to projects. Build productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders and develop as a respected subject matter expert.

Charity work & Improving customer experience.

One of the achievements that I am most proud of is becoming a trustee for a charity that supports a cause that I care about. As a board member, I actively participate in board meetings and sub-committees, engaging in constructive discussions and decision-making processes in order to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within the organisation and promote good governance at all levels. I work collaboratively with other board members, the senior leadership team, attend regular meetings and review documents. Another achievement that I am proud of is empowering proactive decision-making, evidenced by data-driven recommendations that amplify customer satisfaction and help propel business growth at Lloyds Banking Group. In my previous placement within Homes as an Onboarding Specialist I drew attention to issues with the AIP customer journey by undertaking a competitor analysis resulting in several teams taking note and prioritising some of the problems I raised.