Client Service Executive Review

by Barclays

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.3/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

My apprenticeship is in Relationship Management. My first rotation, and first role is that of a Client Service Executive. This involves having a portfolio of corporate clients, as I was placed in the corporate business area, and dealing with their servicing needs on a day to day basis. By servicing needs, this includes but is not limited to: cheque referalls, inward payments, open credit facilities, returning funds, closing accounts, setting up regular payments.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

My communication skills have been enhanced as well as my time management skills. The skills I have picked up/ developed within the 6 months I have been here have been invaluable.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I am really enjoying my programme and I am happy with my choice of chosing this apprenticeship as opposed to accepting my place at university.

9/10

4. How valued do you feel by Barclays?

Very much so; my line manager/ colleagues are understanding of the fact that I am studying as well as carrying out a full time job. I am often invited to volunteer as events to get my voice heard and I feel highly valued by Barclays.

9/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is fairly new and so the structure/ organisational aspects could be better. For example, and the primary reason for my answer, relates to the fact that I am due to rotate to a new role in September. The possible role rotations have not been made sufficiently clear and despite myself, and other apprentices, putting forward ideas/ asking for guidance, we have been advised that there is essentially only one possible rotation (RSM)- this was not made clear on application and so this is the only negative point I have to put forward regarding my programme.

3/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Support from the training provider is sufficient. Particularly, Chris Rooney at Capita is very helpful and is quick to support.

7/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Support within the workplace has been great. As previously mentioned, my colleagues and line manager are accomodating to that I am also on an intense study programme. We also get 10 days days per annum which has helped.

8/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

Having relocated to London, where living costs/ rent is expensive, it is a struggle in terms of finance but it is not impossible. This is to be expected when living in London.

6/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

Yes, I am regularly invited to volunteer at events.

7/10

9. Would you recommend Barclays to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

The primary reason would be because the values (respect, integrity, service, excellence and stewardship) really shine through within the workplace making it a great work environment. Additionally, Barclays is hot on citizenship and charity work which I think is a great thing. Additionally, I think Barclays leads the way amongst banks in terms of opportunities for young people and I think this is really important.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Barclays?

Be yourself throughout the interview process; if you are suited to work for Barclays this will be evident- and don't be nervous because everyone is really friendly! I would also advise to be prepared for hard work but this is a positive thing as working for Barclays has helped me develop in ways which I didn't expect.