Assistant Relationship Manager

1. Why you chose to do an apprenticeship?

I chose an apprenticeship as I wanted to gain a qualification whilst also learning on the job. I wanted to jump straight into the world of work, and found that an apprenticeship suited what I wanted.

2. Describe your role and what it entails…

Assistant Relationship Manager – assisting a Commercial banking portfolio of around 100 customers, assisting them with any queries they may have, attending Business Review meetings with my Relationship Manager, completing reviews with customers 3 times a week to ensure their accounts are protected from fraud.

3. What have been your highlights ?

Highlights for me include 1. Going down to London to be in a working party to provide feedback on the apprentice program to Paul Thwaite (CEO) 2. Being shortlisted for BPP’s Apprentice of the year & Insider Media’s Young Banker of the Year. 3. Going up to Edinburgh to talk about my apprenticeship experience with a new cohort of apprentices.

4. What have been your challenges ?

One of the main challenges for me was at the start of my apprenticeship, figuring out how to balance my time between studying & working, but I have a very supportive team who helped me with my time management.

Another challenge for me was coming to work in a bank when I had no banking knowledge, but I quickly picked up what I needed to know from the training I was given in my role by my team and also the professional qualification.

5. What have you learnt from your experience in your role ?

1. Confidence in building relationships with customers & colleagues . 2. Customer Service Skills 3. Confidence in public speaking

6. What advice would you give to a student following in your footsteps ?

Throw yourself into your apprenticeship, make sure you keep on top of your work & stick to your deadlines – it is challenging at times but very rewarding.