Why did you join the HSBC industrial placement programme?

I joined HSBC as I thought it would be the perfect start to the working world. I knew I wanted to join a global company, as I had always dreamt of working abroad, so HSBC was the perfect fit. I also knew from my research that HSBC cared about diversity and inclusion, which is really important to me, especially being a woman in finance. 

Briefly describe your time on the programme.

My time on the programme has been the most fantastic journey. I have been so pleasantly surprised by how willing everyone is to help whenever I need advice or have a question. The office is a really supportive atmosphere. I never thought I would be given so much autonomy, however I have had the opportunity to get involved in side-desk projects, such as diversity and inclusion initiatives and the Climate Action Network, which have helped enrich me both professionally and personally. In addition to this, in my day job I have been given the task of leading on one of our propositions, which has been a great development opportunity. I didn’t expect to be given this level of autonomy so early in my career.

What has been your biggest success during your time at HSBC?

Being part of the team that delivered a new and innovative investment product. When I first joined the team, I was unaware of all the steps there are to launch a product and I leant some invaluable transferable skills. I have developed my stakeholder management skills through communicating with different departments, project management abilities, and business writing skills through completing governance papers.

How would you describe the industrial placement community at HSBC?

The community is just fantastic. It is crazy to think I didn’t know the other people on the programme a year ago, everyone is so supportive, and kind and it is so lovely to know that people are happy for your successes. There is also an Early Careers Community (ECC) where everyone is helpful and fun. Being a part of the ECC makes the office an extremely warm place to visit.

How would you describe the working culture at HSBC?

The working culture at HSBC is brilliant, they are so supportive of you having a healthy work life balance, which I find makes all the employees a lot happier! All my colleagues are supportive and willing to give up their time to help me expand my knowledge.