Graduate Consultant - Business Analyst Review

As a Business Analyst within Santander, we are responsible for driving changing throughout the bank. On a daily basis, we communicate (through different channels) with various stakeholders involved in the change to gain support, and then work with experienced staff to plan and implement change. Depending on what project and department you are assigned to, work can vary significantly.

There is no doubt that, although only 6 months in, many skills have been built upon and developed. For example, communication, team work, problem solving technical skills are all examples of skills used on a daily basis. Communication is key in this role, as we constantly reaching out to key senior stakeholders and at times we are communicating change that they may not (as yet) be on board with.

I really enjoy my programme, it is varied and there is great potential to move about various different areas within the bank. It is one which offers great potential for career progression, so it is easy to stay motivated. One downside is at times it can be challenging to balance working life with apprenticeship studies.

For my specific programme, this is the first time it has been implemented in the bank, therefore there have been a few teething issues. I think the communication and relationship between my employer and training provider could have been better facilitated, however given it is a branch new programme, it is as organised as can be.

There is no doubt that everyone across the bank, from colleagues, project managers and senior managers, everyone is very supportive. We receive 20% of our time to dedicate to our learning, and this is a very important and integral part - without this support it would be difficult to juggle priorities.

We have a dedicated skills coach and tutor who is always on hand to answer any queries or doubts we may have. We also have monthly meetings with them, as well as our management team to discuss any issues and track our progress, and this helps keep our management team updated about our qualifications.

I feel that, while training is definitely worthwhile, we would have benefitted from it all being delivered at the start of our programme. This would mean that from the beginning, we would have been equipped with the necessary skills to perform well in our roles. However, although they are scattered throughout the year, they do help with my day to day life.

We are given the opportunity to attend several networking events throughout the year. Given the majority of our team are made up of young graduates, there are also several social events organised for us, but I do feel there could be more of these, and more opportunities to network with a wider group of people in the organisation.

Yes

Santander is an excellent company to work for. It has a very rich culture with deep values, an aspect of the company that every employees adopts. Working on a graduate programme, there are excellent opportunities to develop in the future, if the employee wanted. I feel like a valued employee.

I would only recommend applying for a job or graduate scheme if the individual has a genuine desire to work for the company and/or in the specific role. There is pressure to apply for as many jobs as possible, however it means if you are successful you may end up stuck in a job you don't want. Have as much banking knowledge and background info on Santander (as is possible) and be yourself.