Why do you enjoy your job?
I started working as an apprentice for Aberdeen Asset Management* in September 2016 which will last for 2 years with a guaranteed permanent job at the end of the programme. I enjoy working as an apprentice because I have the opportunity to rotate around different departments every 4 months which allows me to constantly meet new people and learn new things. It also allows me to gain exposure to the different areas of the business such as compliance, risk, IT, business systems, finance, investment operations, digital marketing and HR before deciding where I would like to focus my career.
I am a confident and enthusiastic individual. These skills suit my job role as I am constantly exposed to different areas of the business and different people I have never met before. I have a drive to be successful and constantly improve upon my skills which is also compensated through my job role. The programme provides on the job training, however, we are also put through relevant qualifications suited to our future ambitions.
What is the most challenging thing about your job?
I believe the most challenging thing about my job is leaving the team at the end of my 4 month rotation. As much as I want to move to another department and learn new things, it is difficult to start fresh after being settled in a team. However, this is all part of the experience and everybody is very friendly and welcoming to trainees and apprentices within the company.
How did you get into your job?
I originally applied to study at university and had not considered any other options. However my school hosted a careers event which was full of many different employers interested in school leavers. After listening to a presentation provided by my apprenticeship manager, I was very interested in the programme. The presentation provided an insight of what Aberdeen do as a whole and what being an apprentice would involve. I then submitted my application form and completed an interview. To my delight, I was asked to come along for 2 weeks work experience with our private equity team which gave me an opportunity to see how I found working in this environment. After the two weeks, I was sure that I no longer wanted to attend university and wished to start working as an apprentice. Following my final interview I was very fortunate to be offered the role. I declined all of my university offers and joined the company in September.
What are your future aspirations?
As an apprentice early in my career, I am unsure where I see myself in the future. However, I understand that the progression opportunities within the company are exceptional and I strive to end up in the best position I possibly can be through hard work and my enthusiastic nature.
How would you sum up your Investment20/20 experience?
The programme provides you with the tools to be successful in an organisation: it’s down to you how you implement them.
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