Relationship Team Officer Review

Job Title: Relationship Team Officer. Initially I spent the majority of my time studying towards the Professional Bankers Certificate. I then had to complete monthly coursework for the City & Guilds Qualification which covered aspects of my day-to-day job. My day role now includes supporting two Relationship Managers, supporting their portfolio of customers. I am in daily contact with customers whether that be via meetings, phone calls or emails. I have a great exposure to the RBS Group’s customers.

I have completed the Professional Bankers Certificate, the City & Guilds Qualification and I have completed the apprenticeship. I receive quarterly internal training to update my knowledge of banking and to make me aware of any prevalent problems in the banking world such as; fraud, vishing, Anti-Bribery & Corruption Etc. I have learnt how to work in a professional environment, speaking with customers and learning how to use the systems at RBS. This has helped me to secure a subsequent full-time role within the RBS group. I have been provided with the opportunity to partake in public speaking and help in a number of internal projects.

My work has been tough at times, there was initially a very steep learning curve. My team and those around me have been highly supportive of my development and will happily point me in the right direction to solve any issues which I have. I have enjoyed the apprenticeship and I am grateful for all of the opportunities which I have been provided with.

I feel highly valued by my managers and have received recognition for my endeavours both internally and externally. I have been involved in a wide range of tasks / projects and I have received feedback, both positive and negative, because of my involvement. This has helped me to assess my weaker areas, and allow me to realise where I can develop to improve my skill sets.

I had a two day induction which was intense. There was a lot of information to take in, which could have lead to the potential overload of information at such an early stage My training provider, BPP, has been helpful in aiding me pass the exam and coursework side of the apprenticeship. The training and support which I have received from my colleagues has been exceptional. I have had a mentor who has assisted me with developing my skills. I was given plenty of time to prepare for my exams and coursework which allowed me to pass the exam smoothly the first time around. My programme has been very well organised.

I had a tutor whom I spoke with biweekly. I was able to go to my tutor with any problems / questions that I had and we were able to resolve them. Caroline Hughes, my tutor has been of great assistance to my success. My training provider was supportive and provided reassurance whenever it was needed.

I have had plenty of support internally, and could not have asked for anything more. My manager has been fantastic, I haven't had any issues with HR. My mentor has been crucial in my development and has supported me throughout my apprenticeship. I have been able to resolve any problems smoothly. I have been met with warmth and everyone has been supportive of my development.

My apprenticeship is very well paid. I currently have no problems meeting my living costs, travelling costs, daily costs or social costs. My location is in an affluent city and I enjoy the working environment. I have to travel for around an hour each day which I find easily manageable.

There are a number of opportunities outside of work. There is a Young Bankers Association whom I am a part of. I have made friends with the other apprentices within my region and my colleagues who I work with daily. I have plenty of options as far as sports / clubs. I am currently going to a gym which is about five minutes walk from my office.

Yes

There is a huge range of apprenticeships on offer, each providing you with adequate skills to slot into a full-time role if you can meet all of the criteria. The roles are demanding of your time and you need to be switched on in order to pass the exam and coursework.

The application process is rigorous, and you have to have prepared thoroughly for each step; the initial application, competency tests, telephone interview and then a face-to-face interview. I would advise anyone applying to be fully committed and prepare for a wide variety of tasks, whether that be customer facing or internally. There is always something that can be done and you need to be proactive and chase the opportunities that are available to you.