Graduate Business Analyst Review

The business analyst role is project based meaning that we can get moved around and become familiar with a number of different departments within the bank. Tasks therefore vary depending on the project you are situated in but can often include things such as requirements engineering, data modelling, gap analysis and business impact assessments. A main feature of the role is to engage with both internal and external stakeholders and understand their needs and expectations.

Throughout my time here I have learnt several new skills. These include how to formally document a set of requirements, how to roadmap different processes and how to carry out analysis. Additionally, it has provided a much deeper understanding of the banking industry as a whole. Existing skills which have been enhanced have been things like communication skills. Having to communicate on a day to day basis with different key stakeholders has meant that my communication and confidence skills have improved.

The programme gives me new challenges and tasks on a daily basis meaning that I am always learning new things making the whole experience enjoyable. The training weeks which QA provide also allow me to learn new skills in much more depth which I can then take back to the project and apply.

The programme is structured in a good way with training weeks scheduled about 2 months apart. In between the training weeks we are set both individual and group tasks which have deadlines between the two training weeks. Additionally, we have skills coach meetings every 6-8 weeks to discuss progression and raise any concerns which we may have.

Santander offer a substantial amount of support to the programme. They allow us to take study days (Both individual and group) in order to complete tasks set by QA. Additionally, many of the project leads try and delegate the work which will benefit us the most within our qualifications to allow us to complete all the requirements of the apprenticeship.

Support from QA is good throughout the programme. Each individual has a skills coach who they can talk should any concerns arise. These skills coaches carry out meetings every 6-8 weeks to discuss projects as well as the more academic side of the programme. Additionally, QA trainers teach the training courses and ensure that we have learnt everything in order to pass exams.

I think the qualification definitely helps me to perform better in my role. The courses we attend allow us to learn new techniques which are then very transferable into our projects. The techniques we learn are all relevant to business analysis but also to other roles such as project management so the course are setting us up for other future roles.

There are extra activities which people can get involved in. Football and netball teams are available for anyone to join as well as the opportunity to play in wider bank tournaments. There is always opportunities to go to networking events and different conferences- for example conferences based around FinTechs are becoming increasingly available for those interested.

Yes

The bank is a very friendly place to work offering a lot of opportunities particularly to apprentices and graduates. Staff treat you with respect and delegate responsibility making each individual feel like they are adding value to the company whilst respecting that you may not know everything and being willing to sit down and discuss/explain anything you need.

Don't be afraid to speak up and ask questions- everyone is willing to help. Santander's main focus is on our customers and what we can do to improve their experience with us. Therefore show that you have good communication skills and a want to help and engage with others.