Head of Fund Goverance and Product Review

I am responsible for the daily oversight, risk and product distribution of UCITS and NURS Funds across UK, Luxembourg and Ireland. this role includes responsibility for for reporting to both internal and external board members for respective Fund. The total AUM of the funds is GBP 12 bil. this includes responsibility for reviews of 12 horizontal risks to which the business is exposed including Financial crime.

The apprenticeship has taught me to look at my own internal processes and the impacts' that this has on both how I consume information but also deliver messages both to my immediate teams but also to the wider business. in doing the course I have had time to understand the value of standing back and looking at a response and a behavior in amore holistic way,

The programme is tough and there are days when I wonder what have I signed up for here. however the overarching message is that I am enjoying the challenge and new knowledge which I am exposed too. in addition the opportunity to network across various areas of the organization has been eye opening.

The programme is organized well, with subject matter been relevant to the topics we need to cover over the course. it is however at times tough to balance, study work and home life, but it is part of the development to teach oneself how to better manage these challenges and use time effectively.

Our employer is fully supportive of the programme and values inputs we bring back from our course in our daily tasks. in addition we have been provided with time both to be onsite but also during normal work hours to work both on the programme but on our owns self development. in addition Barclays continue to provide additional internal support.

Support is always there both form provider and course co-ordinator, facilitators and early learning team. You only need ask and someone will be able to assist. Support is also available from all lecturers which are available to ask questions and clarifications if you are unclear. Time is very well allocated to ensure you are able to make these connections.

This has opened up new avenues of communication both with senior management but also with my team and external providers. in addition it has allowed me to better understand the company and the strategy which the company is following an dhow I and my team play apart in the bigger picture. It has allowed me to plan and execute better.

There are many activated available for us at work including networking however these are not related to the programme specifically, although it may give you the confidence to take part. There are ample Net working programmes, Woman network, Support meetings and charity events, in addition to time off to take part in outside charity work.

Yes

Barclays is a big organization and there are so many different roles which you can find, it not all about banking. Barclays afford you the opportunity to better yourself and your career through training and other internal programmes. It is a place where one can settle and work towards being your best.

Be prepared to work hard and be challenged. be open minded and accept that you are not necessarily going to start at the top and that this will be a journey. It will take time if you have come from smaller organizations or firms to understand how multinational work and the rules and polices which some with being a firm of this size.