Global Wealth Management Apprentice Review

Mainly Admin tasks and helping with background checks on new and existing clients. Updating client contact information and processing forms for Client Advisors. Work within a team with 2 other apprentices, with whom I manage an inbox which tasks are sent into to complete. Tasks can be very repetitive and monotonous.

Since beginning the apprenticeship I have passed 1 of the 3 exams which I need for my IOC (investment Operation Certificate). I complete professional exams in finance with the University of Exeter and at the same time work towards a degree in Applied Finance. I have become more confident speaking to new people.

At times, the programme can be quite difficult to enjoy as there is a lot of work, studying for a degree and professional qualifications, whilst also working 4 days a week. The work can be very repetitive and sometimes not very interesting. I have enjoyed meeting new people and everyone has tried to make me feel welcome despite having only been into the office on a couple of occasions.

With Exeter, I feel the programme could be better structured as for our first professional exam, Introduction to Securities and Investment, we were giver 6 months of learning for an exam which isn't too challenging. However, for our second exam, Risk in financial services, we have only been given 3 months to go through what is a much more challenging topic.

I have weekly 1 to 1 meetings with my line manager to check my progress and make sure I don't have any problems or need anything. I also have regular meetings with 2 workplace mentors which help me with day to day work and also my goals for the future.

As I have previously stated, I feel Exeter's programme could be better structured. I also feel like there is too much focus on the professional development rather than focusing purely on the qualifications. The support from academic mentors is good and we have regular meetings to check on my progress.

The financial qualifications help to understand some more complex problems at work.

no

Yes

Good scope for progression, able to gain a degree at the same time as earning money. After 4 years you will be very employable, with 4 years of experience working in a bank and a degree from a Russell group university. Even if you don't continue with UBS it is a great way to get experience and learn how a bank works.

I had 2 online interviews so I assume it will be different for next year and beyond but I would advise learning a bit about the company so you're not completely unprepared if you are asked questions on it.