Credit Officer Review

I am a Credit Officer for Coutts and Adam & Co Private Banking Services. On top on daily meetings with the immediate and wider team, my work involves processing credit applications for clients and liaising with frontline Private Bankers to ensure client applications go through in a swift and timely fashion. I have been responsible for organising events such as conferences and parties, and bank wide learning programmes.

My excel abilities, my organisational skills and fundamental business knowledge have all benefitted greatly along with my ability to collaborate with others. There are free language courses and many business related courses that are also free to take.

The programme is great - really supportive from inside the Bank and from BPP who run the apprenticeship scheme. Looking forward to the challenges ahead. It's as expected and explained - no nasty surprises.

There is a big incentive for reward and recognition within the Bank, and feedback is greatly encouraged. I've received both recognition and rewards for certain pieces of work which was a great feeling and makes you feel valued.

The person development plan given to myself another apprentices is really clear and comprehensive. There is plenty of time between the start of a module and the relevant exam.

There are webinars and revision sessions regularly from BPP. There is also a huge variety of online content and support, as well as helpful contacts at BPP you can contact with questions and queries.

I am given 4 hours a week during office hours to allocate to studies. There is also flexibility closer to some of the exams where I can get a bit of extra time if I need it. Great support internally.

Personally, I live in a city where the property rental prices are rising fast and I think the salary package may need to play catch up. Had to sell my car as wasn't it financially viable - though I live fairly centrally in Bristol, having a car is important when visiting friends and family. Bristol isn't cheap socially either. Have received 2 small pay rises since starting though. The pay is adequate but I can't to save any money compared to many fellow apprentices who still live at home.

There are lots of things to do in Bristol, whether that's sports events of clubs, live music, a great selection of bars, clubs and restaurants. I'm not aware of anything that is run by RBS outside of work.

Yes

Overall great place to work. Lots of opportunities to upscale yourself and take advantage of free learning opportunities such as learning languages. Lots of incentives and corporate discounts to supermarkets, phone contracts, and high street & online retailers.

Don't be afraid to 'big yourself up' In the application process - be proud and bold about what you have done and what you can offer. If you're nervous on the interview, just be open about it. If the interviewer knows that you find it a challenge, and sees you go out of your comfort zone and overcome your nerves, this could stand you in greater stead than someone who is naturally confident.