Why do you enjoy your job?
Currently I am an Apprentice at Aberdeen Asset Management* PLC. The reason I enjoy my job is because the characteristics of the apprenticeship scheme and the ethos within AAM creates the perfect environment for me to thrive. The AAM apprenticeship itself has a rotational structure that allows you to visit a possible 6 departments over the 2 year scheme. I relish meeting new people and learning about different departments across the business, it also gives me the flexibility to move, as rotations only last for 4 months. There is a variety of options for apprentices to visit including Risk, Investment Operations, IT, Business Systems, Internal Audit, Investor Services, HR, Finance and Compliance. However, other options are constantly being made available.
I also enjoy my role as it allows me to gain valuable experience that I wouldn’t have gained through higher education. I can’t deny it is very attractive and beneficial to earn and learn at the same time, I also bypass any student debt I could’ve accumulated while still gaining qualifications while working. As an apprentice at Aberdeen Asset Management I am currently studying for a Diploma in digital application support at (SCQF L6) I will then have the options to complete an IOC or an IMC in my second year.
What is the most challenging thing about your job?
For me the hardest part about my job is moving departments every 4 months. This is because just before it is time to move you feel you have a good grasp of your role and have reasonable background knowledge of your department, then all of a sudden you are back to square one in a new position in a new team. However, it is beneficial as it makes sure you are constantly challenged and progressively learning about new areas.
How did you get into your job?
Before joining Aberdeen Asset Management I was a school leaver from Tynecastle High school in central Edinburgh. I didn’t enjoy school, I believed it was the wrong environment for me; I also had no aspirations for higher education. I applied for the apprenticeship scheme at AAM then completed my 2 week internship within the Risk division. This solidified my choice as I was then certain an apprenticeship path was right for me. Shortly after completing the internship I was offered a place within the scheme.
What are your future aspirations?
My future aspirations are modest as I have so many options for my career. Currently I’m concentrating on learning everything I can from each rotation and completing my qualification and starting the IMC.
How would you sum up your Investment20/20 experience?
I have no regrets. The scheme is perfect for me and there are real opportunities for me I would never imagined otherwise.
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