Commercial Banking Intern Review

During my internship within the Balance Sheet & Risk Management team in Commercial Banking, I supported a range of activities focused on risk management, regulatory compliance, and data quality. My role involved working with large datasets, reviewing regulatory documentation, and contributing to projects that helped improve the accuracy and efficiency of risk assessment processes.
On a day-to-day basis, I was responsible for monitoring and improving data quality by identifying inconsistencies, investigating issues, and supporting the implementation of corrective actions. This helped ensure that risk and balance sheet reporting was based on accurate and reliable information.
I also assisted with the preparation and review of regulatory documents, gaining exposure to the regulatory requirements that govern banking activities. This involved validating information, supporting documentation updates, and ensuring that reports met internal and external compliance standards.
A key project throughout my internship was the development and enhancement of a risk weight calculator. I worked on analysing requirements, testing calculations, validating outputs against expected results, and helping to improve the tool's functionality. This project provided valuable insight into how risk-weighted assets are calculated and how risk metrics are used to support decision-making within the bank.
Overall, the role combined analytical, technical, and regulatory work, allowing me to develop a strong understanding of banking risk management, data governance, and the importance of maintaining accurate reporting frameworks within a regulated financial environment.

Yes, I was given a significant level of responsibility throughout my internship, particularly within my data quality workstream. I was trusted to take ownership of several data quality initiatives, where I identified issues, investigated root causes, and worked with stakeholders to improve the accuracy and reliability of key risk data.
One of my main responsibilities was supporting the team's efforts to meet its Risk-Weighted Assets (RWA) target. Through my data quality work, I helped identify and resolve data issues that contributed towards achieving the team's RWA target of £122 million. This required a high degree of accountability, as the quality of the data directly impacted risk reporting and regulatory calculations.
In addition, I took ownership of aspects of the risk weight calculator project, helping to validate calculations, test outputs, and improve the tool's functionality. I was also involved in reviewing regulatory documentation, ensuring information was accurate and aligned with internal and external requirements.
Overall, I was treated as a valued member of the team rather than simply an observer. The level of responsibility I was given allowed me to develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills while making a meaningful contribution to the team's objectives.

Yes, I learnt and developed a wide range of skills during my internship, both technical and interpersonal.
One of the key areas of development was data analysis. Through my work on data quality initiatives, I became much more confident in analysing large datasets, identifying inconsistencies, investigating root causes, and using data to support business decisions. Working on projects linked to risk-weighted assets (RWA) also strengthened my attention to detail and analytical thinking.
I also significantly improved my relationship-building and communication skills. Many of my projects required collaboration with colleagues from different teams and levels of seniority, which helped me develop the ability to communicate clearly, build professional relationships, and work effectively with a range of stakeholders.
In addition, I expanded my networking skills by proactively connecting with colleagues across Commercial Banking and other areas of the bank. This allowed me to gain a broader understanding of the organisation, learn from experienced professionals, and build a strong professional network.
Finally, I developed greater ownership and accountability. By taking responsibility for key data quality workstreams and contributing to the team's achievement of its £122m RWA target, I learnt how to manage my own workload, prioritise tasks effectively, and deliver meaningful outcomes in a professional environment.
Overall, the internship helped me strengthen my technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills while giving me valuable experience working in a commercial banking and risk management environment.

Yes, I received a great deal of support and guidance throughout my internship. My line manager was particularly supportive, providing regular feedback, advice, and mentorship to help me develop both professionally and personally. They trusted me with meaningful responsibilities while always being available to answer questions and offer guidance when needed.
The rest of the team was equally supportive and created a welcoming environment where I felt comfortable seeking help and sharing ideas. Colleagues were always willing to explain concepts, provide context on projects, and help me navigate new challenges, which was especially valuable when working on data quality initiatives, regulatory documentation, and the risk weight calculator.
The combination of strong managerial support and a collaborative team culture allowed me to take ownership of my work while continuing to learn and develop. This balance gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully to the team's objectives and make the most of my internship experience.

The company culture was very enjoyable, collaborative, and supportive. From the beginning of my internship, I felt welcomed by the team and encouraged to contribute to meaningful work rather than simply observe.
The atmosphere was highly collaborative, with colleagues working closely together and always willing to share their knowledge and expertise. This made it easy to ask questions, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute ideas of my own. I felt that my work was valued, particularly through my involvement in data quality initiatives, regulatory documentation, and the risk weight calculator project.
One of the aspects I appreciated most was the level of trust and responsibility given to me. I was able to make genuine contributions to the team, take ownership of key pieces of work, and see the impact of my efforts on wider team objectives, including supporting the achievement of the £122m RWA target.
Overall, the culture was positive, inclusive, and development-focused, creating an environment where I could build my skills, grow my confidence, and make the most of my internship experience.

I enjoyed my internship to a great extent and found it to be an extremely valuable learning experience. It provided me with the opportunity to develop both my technical and professional skills while gaining first-hand exposure to the banking industry.
I particularly enjoyed the variety of work I was involved in, including data quality initiatives, regulatory documentation, and the development of a risk weight calculator. These projects allowed me to take ownership of meaningful tasks and make tangible contributions to the team's objectives.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the internship was the people. The team was highly supportive, collaborative, and welcoming, which made the experience both enjoyable and engaging. I built strong relationships with colleagues and felt comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and taking on new challenges.
Overall, I found the internship both fun and rewarding. Not only did I gain valuable industry knowledge and develop key skills in areas such as data analysis, communication, and stakeholder management, but I also had the opportunity to contribute to important projects, including supporting the team in achieving its £122m RWA target. The experience confirmed my interest in pursuing a career in banking and risk management.

Yes