Global Wealth Management Apprentice Review

I mainly complete due diligence checks into current and prospective clients as well as using internal systems to raise client requests and change their account details- this may include closing accounts, changing contact details or adding account access. I also prepare reports and valuations for client portfolios and complete any other tasks denoted by client advisors, client advice managers or line manager.

During the short time I have been with UBS, 8 months, I have learnt many new skills specific to my role. These include use of internal systems and checks as well as developing my interpersonal skills with those who assign my work. More generally, we have been given additional Excel Training and the firm are running Quarterly Apprentice Skills programs which allow us to improve in areas such as communication.

Currently, the program is highly enjoyable. Everything which UBS offers is to a high standard and we are surrounded by a brilliant support network to help with any issues. The degree element ties in nicely with our work and the professional exams we are undertaking. I have deducted two stars due to the 'Work Based Learning' portion of the degree which does not appear to link with my role in my opinion and the repetitiveness of some daily tasks.

This can be broken in to two elements- the organization of UBS and the program within the firm and the organization of Exeter and the study element. Unfortunately, Exeter drags down the overall score as I feel their organization is poor in some areas, especially around lecturers and seminars. UBS on the other hand would be scored 10 on their own, as I feel the program is incredibly well structured from information provided to support offered. They have also tried to improve Exeter's organization after complaints from our cohort, meaning I cannot fault the firm itself.

UBS has done a brilliant job at offering support to the apprentices, especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic. I currently, have two work place mentors, one within my team and one from elsewhere within the bank, who I meet with monthly. I also have a second year apprentice mentor who helps with my day to day work and a very supportive line manager who holds meetings weekly. There are even opportunities for further mentors from the bank's networks.

Exeter offers some elements of support at the University level with channels for safeguarding, mental health and assignment help. However, I feel the module specific support is lacking as lecturers are often slow to respond or give poor feedback to draft essays. Support from Exeter regarding the apprenticeship section has been brilliant though and I thoroughly enjoy speaking with my Academic Mentor for help regarding the Apprenticeship standard.

The finance side of the degree helps to understand concepts spoken of in work and the regulation behind why we carry out the checks as we do. I have even found that knowledge from work helps to explain concepts of the study program; showing the interlinked nature of the two. However, I do not understand the relevance of the 'Work Based Learning' side of our course to our jobs within the bank. Much of the content is based on self reflection and even the ability to listen or write emails. To the entire cohort, this side of the course does not seem relevant and many apprentices have complained to UBS.

UBS allows many extra curricular activities in the form of networks across the bank. These include networks for disability and veterans awareness as well as diversity and inclusion. Whilst there is an opportunity to join as many as you like and they allow you to increase your own network and attend events, I am not aware of any sports teams or more casual networks where staff can engage in hobbies. I think these more casual networks would improve my score further.

Yes

I feel UBS is a brilliant employer who genuinely cares about its staff. I do not feel like a 'number' even at such a large firm and all staff are incredibly welcoming and friendly. The culture at the firm is fantastic and future opportunities to expand my education make it a great place to start and continue a career in banking.

My main advice and tips would be to complete plenty of research on the firm before an interview. Make sure you know about its history, what it does, where it is going and all the charitable causes we invest in. I would also emphasize being approachable and seeing where you fit within the UBS 3 Keys and wider culture. Finally, whilst you should be prepared, don't become a robot in the interview or when asked questions! Be talkative and let your personality shine through as much as possible, after all I feel this is a very important factor for staff at UBS.