Aladdin - Data Client Services Review
at BlackRock
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Data Analysis
Edinburgh
Review Submitted: April 2024
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
My main role as part of the Data Client Services team in Aladdin is to investigate and mitigate any issues related to data, this can range from simple re-runs / re-calculation of reports to far more complex and investigative issues. As well as this I actively work on solo ventures to help autonomise and streamline work processes using programming languages such as Python.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I love my programme, every single day I am just as excited to come to the office as the prior. The excitement never seems to fade. As everyday I am constantly able to keep pushing myself to develop and take on new, unique and exciting challenges.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
During my time at BlackRock I have been constantly developing and learning new skills, some of these skills are related/required for the job I do on a daily basis, e.g skills relating to Python, SQL, Unix ect. but I have also been given almost limitless opportunities to develop more general skills, such as public speaking through events sponsored by BlackRock and/or Skills Development Scotland
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The structure of the programme is truly excellent. It has been meticulously planned from the beginning to support and propel the development of all the Apprentices in all areas. This support is given both externally, by BPP University, and internally by BlackRock.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
A huge amount of support is continuously being delivered by BlackRock in all areas, from flexibility when working (e.g being flexible if you require to work from home a few extra days in a given week) As well as supporting us sourcing opportunities within and outwith the company. As apprentices we are also entitled to all existing support and development structures in place in the company which are world class.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
BPP provides their own weekly Lectures exclusively for Apprentices that are hosting through them. They also provide an online portal created by then with a huge amount of revision material for our relevant exams as well as fund the purchase of things such as text books. We are also checked up on and reviewed on a monthly basis with our assessor from BPP.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
All Apprentices based in Edinburgh are currently studying towards the 'Investment Operations Certificate - Level 3 (IOC3)' which is a broad industry recognised professional qualification awarded by the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments. I feel this, along with learning on the job, is equipping me with the industry standard knowledge that will allow me to specialise in any given field I would like to persue within finance after I complete the 18 month long Apprenticeship and become a fully qualified Analyst within my role.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
There are countless social activities and professional networking events happening everywhere in the company in Edinburgh, as well as this there are also Networks/Groups for every sport you can think of which provides both the opportunity to play what ever sport you like to play, but also network with talented people from all around the company. There are also many 'Impact Networks' which allow you to make a difference and support the improvement in areas you are interested in, some of these areas include, but aren't limited to: the environment through the Green Network, Financial Education through the Financial Inclusion team, Social Mobility through the Social Mobility team as well as many more.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BlackRock to a friend?
Yes
Why?
There really is no place like it, especially in the Asset Management field. Here you will be part of the largest and most prestigious asset manager in the world, recently breaking over 10 Trillion USD in Assets Under Management. Aswell as this absolutely everyone who works here is world class at what they do. Everyone is the absolute best in their field so you can constantly surrounded by people who are there to help and educate you. The opportunities and doors for your future BlackRock offers is really second to none.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BlackRock?
I would advise applicants to learn how to love getting out their comfort zone. That way you are really able to capitalise on the unique opportunities that BlackRock offers that allow you to constantly push and develop yourself.
