Retail Operations Apprentice Review

My current role, as a retail operations apprentice, covers an integral part of the operations process. My role specifically covers the buy side of the dealings process. This means that I must use three required software's in order to process the buy instructions/requests from the clients, ensuring that all their details are correct and up to date, and then sending the instruction through to buy whichever fund it is they would like to invest in.

Yes I have learnt new skills, as well as develop existing skills. In terms of existing skills, I previously had developed my analytical and attention to detail skills and this role required me to develop it even further due to the responsibilities. As well as this, I have been able to build my confidence a lot more, making myself feel more comfortable in the role than when I had started. In terms of new skills, I have learnt through LinkedIn Learning how to organize my time and physical room space a lot more efficiently, considering the fact that we have had to work from home. As well as that, I had also completed a course on how to effectively listen and communicate with others in the office.

So far its been good. I wasn't sure exactly what to expect as it was my first professional endeavor, as well as starting it by working from home. Everyone that I have met so far are very welcoming, kind and supportive whenever I have had any concerns. I look forward to being able to work in the offices and collaborate with different people in the near future.

From what I have done and experienced so far, the program is fairly well organized and structured. The induction and training process was well planned and the support meetings/mentor system really added to the overall help and support offered by the firm. In terms of studying, we have been sent textbooks from the program provider and we have a future timeline/schedule so as to know when we should reach each milestone and hit each target in preparation for the exams.

The support I have received so far has been great. All of my concerns have been met with utmost professionalism and the process of raising the concern, setting up the meeting, and talking with the line manager was effective and efficient. The general attitude was very good in that the manager had shown clear understanding of the situation and had shown genuine care in resolving the matter.

We are still in the early stages of the apprenticeship, however the support so far has been very good. We have contacts with the program manager, as well as a skills coach who are all available to talk to, should we have any concerns. I am sure in the future if I have any questions or issues, they would be ready to help.

The program provides a better understanding of the financial industry as a whole, which helps me increase my wider understanding and knowledge of investment management. This in turn helps me in my day to day role as I know more and more about what it is I do and why I do it, but also the importance of it.

Considering the current situation with COVID-19, we have not been able to experience such things as of yet. However, we do receive weekly emails about social events, networking events, charity events and all other sorts taking place online over Zoom, so there still is that social company events aspect there. I am sure as soon as things get back to the way they were, I would definitely part-take in these activities.

Yes

I feel that the corporate culture at Fidelity is not matched by any other investment firm out there. Also, the location of the firms offices are actually in a more preferable location. Rather than having to travel to and work in hectic Central London, its in a more ecocentric and greener region, allowing its employees to enjoy the mental and physical benefits of nature, something that we will most definitely not take for granted anymore.

The application process was a lot different than what I had imagined. It had been done in cooperation with Entrepreneurs in Action, and organization pushing for big firms to hold CV-less application processes. This had proven to be quite the challenge, as we had to confidently show through our own personal skills why we should be chosen for a role. For tips and advice, I would have to say, confidence is key. Being able to believe in your own abilities results in you being able to manifest them, and truly thrive and flourish when proving your worth.