Portfolio Management Review

An overview of my role would be providing support to my immediate team but also the wider floor on a day-to-day and being the link between the investment team and other stakeholders, external and internal. This is through equity order raising, cash management, risk analysis, performance attribution and more.

I've been able to develop communication, technical, time management and excel skills, to name a few. Everyone is more than happy to show you what they're working on and the ability to learn from them is vast - leading me to learn FX raising, money markets, fund and stock analysis skills and more!

I enjoy my programme to a high degree. Being surrounded by colleagues with years of experience allows me to learn in a more practical way as their experience mixed with their advice creates a good learning environment. The programme also allows me to engage in projects and work on specialised matters which I otherwise would not be able to.

The programme is structured in a way where you can expand your network, learn, find what you're interested in, take on projects and make your mark. We're always notified if plans change regarding the apprenticeship and any worries we have can be directed to HR during our regular catchup. There's always room for improvement, as we go through the learning process so does the firm - in hopes of being better for the next cohort.

The support received is good. Everyone understands you're just coming out of sixth form/ college and can appreciate you are entering what can feel like a major change. All questions are welcomed and whatever you need to help you succeed by the end of the apprenticeship is provided.

The training providers are there to make you better, you can always reach out to them when you have a question either during a lecture or after. We are assigned a coach that will answer all questions, check-up on us and guide us through the programme. Virtual lectures are great, it takes getting used to however the training provider is very engaging and prepares you to pass your exams.

The qualification teaches me some essentials for my role. For example, I cover derivatives, equities, bonds, money markets, risk, regulation and more. It not only helps me to engage in conversations with team members who have years of experience but the qualification allows me to ask questions also. It's a step in the right direction when looking to do well in the role/ industry.

There's a wide range of extra-curricular activities to get involved with. The firm has a list of networks to join and participate in events with - from baking all the way to sports! You are also encouraged to get involved as it helps your network and if there's any activity you are passionate about, the opportunity to host an activity is open.

Yes

There's something new to learn everyday. Nothing beats learning directly from professionals in their respective fields of expertise as you can ask questions, gain advice and have access to some of the worlds best minds out there. You also develop professionally which benefits future engagements. BlackRock is an opportunity to put yourself out there and learn as much as you want.

Some advice I'd give to those applying is to be open to new ideas and different ways of doing things. We learn to build ourselves up and the best way to do that is through being open. Be curious but also focussed on your goals as it will shape your approach to work and to building your network. I'd also recommend having a genuine interest in the industry as you tend to do the things you love doing!