Client Account Manager Review

My day-to-day role involves talking to clients, producing statements, processing payments and trades, updating client static data such as their address or tax status. Being the main contact point for any admin or queries that do not need to go to their financial advisor. Also liaising internally to resolve any issues.

The main skills I have developed and learnt are focused around communication such as calling, emailing and meeting both clients, third parties and people internally. I have also developed my skills in systems such as Excel and Powerpoint far more than I did at school. I have learnt new skills such as dealing with complaints and using internal systems.

The programme that was run by Exeter was often jumbled and it was very clear we were the first intake from UBS. Things were often arranged at short notice or overlapped with other things. The timing of the sessions were good to start with but began to deteriorate as the apprenticeship went on. This hindered my enjoyment as I was often stessed about timings of different sessions and trying to organise myself.

As above, the programme that was run by Exeter was often overlapping and it was abundantly clear we were the first intake. Webinars were often arranged at short notice or overlapped with other things which only got worse as the apprenticeship went on. The university did not plan for anyone to need to resit the CFA and as such the timetable was based around passing the first time.

I cannot fault my employer as they have provided ample support throughout the apprenticeship. I got my allocated study days and more when it was crunch time. I was allowed to work from home more often than most in order to do my best in my studies and save me time.

Some - the university were often focused on the degree side of the apprenticeship and did not take into account different apprentices having different schedules and requirements. We were often only provided with limited resources or webinars leading up to a professional exam. Having said this, the support for university related projects or tasks was often really good.

My qualification helps me feel more knowledgeable about the topics that I deal with on a day-to-day basis and can often show the next steps in my career as I can see how the different topics we covered apply to the work place. Having said that, the qualification is not enough for me to step up in my current role as other qualifications are required to deal with retail clients.

UBS offers a lot of networking events, social events and different communities and networks to be a part of. These networks vary from quite niche ones like a knitting club to more generic social clubs and charity events. There are often extra curricular activities that help support people in specific parts of their life or work.

Yes

I would recommend UBS to a friend as the work culture is good, the people are nice and there is plenty of opportunity within the business to progress. The work is diverse and there is always something new to learn, especially in front office. There is constant change and you are able to contribute to that regardless of rank or role.

The interviewing process requires a lot of prep and you need to be wary of the role you are applying for within the business. Your interviews will be in multiple stages so be prepared for them to get more difficult. The best way to apply when I was applying is either though the government apprenticeship website or directly through the UBS website.