Fund Finance Placement Assistant Review

Working in the Fund Finance Team, I spent a large portion of my day verifying invoices ensuring that the software that we used was correctly picking up the correct information on the invoice (amount, supplier name, buyer name, currency etc). I was also responsible for updating invoice trackers regularly for the rest of the team so they knew which invoices had been paid and which invoices were still outstanding. Throughout the year, I performed monthly tasks as well as assisting with the review of quarterly reports.

This roles presented itself as an amazing opportunity to develop both personally and professionally, by exploring concepts and completing tasks that extended beyond my academic studies. Working in a fast paced business environment allowed me to develop my time management skills, and also improve both my verbal and written communication skills. It was great to see how my knowledge gained through university modules could be applied to the real world of Finance.

To be honest, I was very surprised at the beginning of my placement as I was given a lot more responsibility than I had originally expected. You hear the word 'Intern' and think of the cliché that you just do the tasks that no-one else wants to do. However, this could not be further from the reality at SIM. The level of responsibility increased rapidly after my first couple weeks, after I settled into my new role and became more confident in my own ability. I was responsible to complete tasks individually, with the help of the team if I ever needed assistance.

My line manager was extremely supportive, encouraging me to be confident in my work. Whenever I had any issues or questions, I could ask her either in person or over Microsoft Teams and would always receive guidance. I can confidently say that I could receive guidance from not only my line manager, or my immediate team, but even the wider team at SIM as well.

Extremely welcoming and friendly. There were quarterly parties for the whole of SIM which were always a great laugh and opportunity to speak to people in other teams. There were also Fund Finance Socials which included indoor cricket, a personal favourite of mine. The atmosphere in the office was busy at times, but again very friendly. Added bonus that the office interior was also recently refurbished.

As you can tell from my previous answers, I could not recommend SIM enough. It introduced me to the world of Finance and was a great start to my career. Although stressful at times, with always something to do, it meant work was never boring.

Yes

Be yourself in the interviews, SIM employ people with character as well as qualifications. If you are successful, when you get into the office, be sure to introduce yourself to people you see.