Assistant Relationship Manager Review

My role as an assistant relationship manager involves supporting the RMs and assisting with their client portfolios. This includes dealing with client queries, payment requests, making visit packs and risk factor routines. I work with colleagues across a few teams such as portfolio management, credit control and invoice discounting.

My apprenticeship involves achieving my Professional Banker Certificate which I completed within the first couple of months. It has also helped me to develop skills such as confidence, active listening and organisation.

The workload is not entirely challenging but is enjoyable. My team are all very friendly and are great to work with. The culture within the business could be better but due to many changes happening it is not what it once was. I didn't have many expectations coming into the programme but overall I am liking it more than I thought I would.

I have recently had a change in line managers. My previous manager made the effort to have meetings with me and gave feedback on how I had been performing and what she would like to see me do which was always very helpful. I think there could be more done to recognise some of the work that is carried out by colleagues.

The induction and training was good as I got to sit with each of my colleagues meaning I could get to know them a bit more. They are all knowledgeable of the processes and systems so were able to explain them well to me. Although I believe I learn best from carrying out tasks I feel as though there could be a better training/induction to give a more in depth understanding. My team are all very supportive and more than willing to help. The overall structure is rather clear except for what happens at the end of the programme.

My tutor is very friendly and approachable and has helped with any queries I have had. She always encourages me to ask for help where required and is willing to provide it.

My previous line manager was happy to support me and actively encouraged me to attend apprentice events. My new manager also does this but there aren't as many meetings with him to see how I am getting on. This is fine with me as I know I could go to him if I needed anything. I feel as though my new manager doesn't know as much about the apprenticeship programme and how it works.

I still live at home my living costs are considerably cheaper as I do not have to pay rent or bills. I also get a lift into work so have no travel costs to pay. If I did have these expenses I believe my salary would cover them. I have a good amount of money to cover social costs like going out and also for holidays too.

There are some opportunities such as career development days and RBS actively encourage learning. There are some clubs too but most of these are based in England.

Yes

I was originally going to say no but overall I have enjoyed the programme and it has enabled me to gain a great deal of experience. The company is generally a good one to work for but I would like more certainty of a job at the end.

The application process is fairly simple but lengthy. I had to wait a long time from when I first applied to finding out I was successful which was quite difficult as I was dependant on it before dropping out of uni. The interview is fine as long as you prepare for it which RBS advise how to do.