Risk Industrial Placement Review

During my placement as a Data Analyst in the Risk Data Transformation team at Lloyds Banking Group, I supported the organisation’s strategy to enhance risk data capabilities and embed a “data as a product” approach. My role focused on improving how risk data is managed, visualised, and used across the business.
Day-to-day, I transformed manual data trackers into intuitive Power BI dashboards, improving efficiency and delivering clearer, actionable insights for senior risk stakeholders. I developed targeted visualisations to support risk reporting, enabling leaders to identify key trends and make data-driven decisions more effectively. I also gained hands-on experience with the bank’s risk data processes, immersing myself in data governance and understanding end-to-end data flows.

Yes, I was given a significant level of responsibility throughout my placement. I was trusted to lead the development of key Power BI dashboards used by senior stakeholders, transforming manual trackers into automated, insight-driven reporting tools. This involved gathering requirements, designing dashboards, and presenting outcomes to leadership.
I also worked independently on data analysis tasks to support risk reporting and decision-making, ensuring accuracy and clarity in all outputs. In addition to my core responsibilities, I was relied upon to temporarily cover duties for full-time colleagues, demonstrating the team’s confidence in my capability. I took ownership of organising and chairing team meetings, coordinating agendas and ensuring actions were followed up.
Overall, the placement offered meaningful ownership and autonomy, allowing me to contribute directly to strategic data initiatives while developing my confidence and professional skills.

Yes, my placement has significantly enhanced both my technical and professional skillset. I developed advanced skills in Power BI, particularly in dashboard development, data modelling, and DAX, enabling me to build automated and user-friendly reporting tools. I also strengthened my understanding of data governance and risk data processes, learning how large financial institutions manage and control data at scale.
In addition to technical skills, I developed strong communication and stakeholder-management abilities by working closely with senior leaders to gather requirements and present insights. Taking on responsibilities such as covering for full-time colleagues and chairing team meetings helped me build confidence, organisation, and leadership skills.
Overall, this experience has deepened my data analytics abilities and enhanced my professional capabilities, preparing me well for future roles in data and risk.

I received a high level of support and guidance throughout my placement. From the beginning, my line manager and colleagues provided clear direction, regular check-ins, and constructive feedback, which helped me quickly understand expectations and develop confidence in my role. I was also encouraged to take ownership of my work, which allowed me to develop independence while still having access to support when needed.

The company culture at Lloyds Banking Group was highly supportive, collaborative, and people-focused. From the outset, I felt welcomed and encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and take ownership of meaningful work. The team placed a strong emphasis on continuous learning and personal development, which created an environment where I felt comfortable growing my skills and exploring new responsibilities.

I really enjoyed my placement and found it to be a highly valuable and engaging experience. I had the opportunity to work on impactful projects, particularly in improving risk data reporting and developing Power BI dashboards for senior stakeholders, which gave me a real sense of responsibility and achievement.
The supportive and collaborative culture made the experience even more positive — I felt encouraged to ask questions, take initiative, and continuously develop my skills. The variety of work, combined with the trust placed in me, kept the role both rewarding and motivating.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my placement and it has reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in data within the financial services sector.

Yes