Regulatory Graduate

What attracted you to this programme/organisation?

The programme attracted me as I knew it would provide me with an opportunity to have a tangible positive impact on UK consumers and the economy. It also allows you to rotate around a wide range of areas of the firm (from Retail and Motor finance during my internship to Tech, Resilience and Cybersecurity as first rotation of graduate scheme). The work culture is also very friendly, and everyone is so approachable and willing to give you their time to help you learn – which is great when you are just starting your career!

Can you share an example of something interesting you’ve worked on?

An interesting project that I worked on in the Edinburgh office alongside other interns was a piece of work looking at access to cash and financial inclusion in Scotland compared to the rest of the UK. This was particularly exciting as it is an area that hadn’t been researched extensively. We used a wide range of available sources, such as the Financial Lives Survey, and contacts across the organisation to assist us in creating a detailed 10,000-word report and presentation on this issue. This was presented to senior leaders in the Edinburgh office and was a very insightful project that helped further colleagues understanding of this issue.

What’s the most valuable skill or lesson you’ve learned so far?

The most valuable lesson that I have learnt so far has been the importance of networking and widening your number of contacts within the FCA. There is such a range of areas and expertise in the organisation, so I have found that reaching out to colleagues in different departments to learn more about their work and getting to know them has been particularly valuable in furthering my own understanding of the organisation and has made my experience much more enriching!

How do you feel the graduate programme balances learning and working?

An aspect of the graduate programme that I have enjoyed thoroughly so far has been the emphasis on your development and learning as an individual. There are lots of opportunities to attend trainings and workshops which help grow you as a person and educate yourself on a variety of topics from financial analysis to self-development sessions!

What advice would you give to someone considering an internship or a graduate programme at the FCA?

I would say go for it! You meet so many amazing people with a wide range of expertise that are willing to help you grow and develop as not just an employee but as a person. The more you get involved as a graduate or intern at the organisation, the more you will get out of it. Make sure to reach out to colleagues and nurture connections your cohort – it makes the experience much more enriching.