Global Fund Services Testing Analyst Review

I work in Global Fund Services NAV STP testing. This involves writing test scripts and reviewing those written by others, creating test estimates and general maintenance of our testing documentation. My day to day work varies on what needs to be done and I am often set projects by my manager and others in my wider team.

We are currently studying towards an investment operations certificate as an add-on to our apprenticeship qualification, which has given me an in depth knowledge of the financial services industry and the regulations surrounding it. Within work we also have the opportunity to complete internal training courses which can range from system overviews to interpersonal skill development. Personally, I feel I have developed confidence and organisation skills since the beginning of my programme.

I thoroughly enjoy working at J.P. Morgan and their apprenticeship scheme because of the numerous unique opportunities we have been offered and the community culture of the business. However, Since my placement began in September 2013, I have been moved roles 4 times for reasons beyond my control, which has left me feeling a little unsettled and as if I have made less progress than the other apprentices.

Every employee at J.P. Morgan is valued for their efforts and achievements, and we are praised for working hard. This can be seen by regular feedback in our reviews and catch ups with line managers / other colleagues. However, I believe I would feel more valued if I had been in a more stable role and had the opportunity to develop more substantial business knowledge and experience.

Our programme is very well organised and structured. At the beginning of the apprenticeship, we are invited to a two week boot camp where we gain an in depth knowledge of the firm as well as our roles. We also have a very structured learning programme, with 10 week periods of lectures and revision opportunities before our unit exams, of which we have 3.

Our tutors are always contactable via email for any queries regarding our course content or task books. As well as this, our tutor and competency assessor visit regularly to assist with exam preparation and assess our progress. Also, our training provider offers us a confidential service to go to with any work related or personal issues.

J.P. Morgan is a very supportive employer – managers and colleagues are always open to queries and there is a HR hotline available for any HR related queries. Apprentices are also assigned a ‘buddy’ in the form of a second year graduate at the beginning of the programme as an informal support network. On top of this, J.P. Morgan offer a mentor support programme where employees can apply for a senior member of staff to guide them on building their career.

Fortunately, I still live at home so my salary does meet my living costs. However, Bournemouth is a relatively expensive area to live so I will not be able to look to move out whilst on this programme. As well as this, I cannot afford to buy food at work as it would be too high and expense on top of my rent and other bills. Transport on the other hand is more affordable as the firm provides a commuter bus service within a 15 mile radius of campus – which is very reasonably priced.

J.P. Morgan offer many external opportunities – for example, I participated in a corporate social responsibility day where we carried out DIY on a local primary school. As well as this, the firm provide social events such as the summer fun camp and yearly Christmas parties. In addition, I am personally heavily involved with the schools engagement team which means I often attend school events and help to host activities on campus.

Yes

The J.P. Morgan apprenticeship offers a great opportunity to start a career in investment banking without the need to have been to university. The NVQ and professional qualification attached to the apprenticeship provide a stable foundation for a young professional looking to work in the financial services sector.

If you wish to apply for the J.P. Morgan apprenticeship, ensure that you do so as soon as possible as the programme is becoming increasingly competitive. Also, I would advise heavily researching the firm and keeping up to date with current affairs as these are areas you are likely to be quizzed on through the assessment process. Finally, try to come across as confident and keen whilst remembering to have consideration through others during the assessment centres and networking evenings.