Global Market Operations Apprentice Review

I worked within operations which involves ensuring the smooth running of all front office procedures. I specifically supported the trading floor ensuring that all business managers and COOs were able to run their businesses smoothly by supporting their data requirements. I was also involved with aspects of product management which included attending client meetings.

I have developed a large number of skills during my time at HSBC, whilst gaining an invaluable 12 months work experience I have developed my written and verbal professional communication along with my time management and organisational skills. Having the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship in a large global corporation gives an amazing opportunity to learn and develop these skills.

The program structure was very disappointing, there was very little communication or organisation regarding the end of apprenticeship assessments which eventually lead to contracts having to be extended to accommodate the additional time needed. Members of the apprenticeship committee failed to communicate with each other as conflicting answers were regularly given. Within my team, my line manager and colleagues were all extremely friendly and helpful throughout the entire experience. They were always happy to answer and questions and provided constant support when needed.

There was little to no structure. Monthly apprentice meetings were held but gradually became forgotten which lead to a lack of communication from the apprenticeship committee. The external training provider were reluctant to communicate with apprentices when they had queries regarding the end of scheme assessment requirements which lead to a large amount of confusion as to what was expected of us in order to gain the apprenticeship qualification.

HSBC supported my throughout the completion of all 3 units of the Investment Operations Certificate, firstly by providing study materials and sending us on class room courses which were extremely helpful. I was also provided with a mentor who was always available to help and advise on any issues that I encountered during the apprenticeship.

The training provider provided very little support in achieving the Senior Financial Services Customer Adviser qualification. The goal posts were constantly being moved in terms of what our portfolios needed to contain and deadlines were consistently missed and moved which lead to the apprenticeship having to be extended in order to accommodate these shortcomings.

The qualification (Senior Financial Services Customer Adviser) had very little relevance to the role and therefore didn’t effect performance in my role much at all. The qualification appeared much more suited to a retail banking experience and wasn’t appropriate for those working within the operations department of an investment bank

There were no extra curricular activities available that I was made aware of.

No

Overall the apprenticeship program was very poorly structured and not thought through or executed to a high standard. However the opportunity to work in a global corporation and gain brilliant work experience at the beginning of your career is worth it. At the end of the scheme you will have an abundance of opportunities to continue your career both internally and externally

Ensure that you research the company and understand what the operations area does and how it fits within the bank. You should also ensure that you can explain why you want to work in the financial services industry and what you understand and what draws you towards working in the business