Financial Analyst Review

Currently, my role is within a small team which prepares returns for external stakeholders. It involves collating data from a variety of systems and reconciling various forms and balance sheets. I am also responsible for answering queries from the stakeholders and providing reasoning regarding changes in balances on different lines.

Since starting my role, I have greatly increased my working knowledge of using Microsoft Excel. I am now able to use more advanced features like pivot tables, writing macros and using conditional formatting. I have also gained a knowledge of the wider world of finance and regulatory bodies involved in the industry.

I really enjoy my programme. Next month the formal learning begins with lectures delivered by an approved training partner. Although the work is monthly reporting, no 2 days are ever the same. Every month a new set of challenges arises - but part of the fun is definitely overcoming them all.

The program is well organised. In my team a full handover was provided by the apprentice who previously carried out the work I am taking part in. A full induction pack is provided which helped me to orientate myself within the business and apprentice ambassadors are always available to provide any guidance.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. My lectures are 2 and a half hours on 2 days a week. I am allocated this time in work to make sure I can attend all the necessary lessons. I am also provided with time off for study leave prior to exams.

The training provider is very poor. This is no fault of LBG. They are unresponsive and I ended up starting my formal lessons 3 months later than originally planned. They advised this was due to the complexity of the Scottish funded system. Unless continually chased up, I feel they would have forgotten about me.

I have not yet gained a formal qualification through the program as the learning via the provider is still ongoing. Judging by the content and relevance of the training material, I believe the qualification will definitely stand me in goo stead and allow me to complete my work with a higher degree of confidence.

There are always social activities within the department. There are often escape room nights where people from different areas of the department can meet together and be in teams. This allows us to network across the wider business and increase or social and professional circle. I would say this is an important aspect of the role for me.

Yes

I am always treated with respect in the workplace here. LBG managers trust their employees to do their work. Even though I have just recently joined the group, development opportunities are easy to find and my manager is consistently supportive of my interest in these. I have never worked somewhere like this,

Just be honest and be yourself. My interview was strength based as opposed to the traditional competency based type. It was a relaxing atmosphere and if you find yourself easy to engage with and try to relax it definitely gives a good impression. The managers here seem to value honestly and positivity than forming answers you think they want to hear.