Risk Compliance Officer Review

Screening payments, working transaction alerts, raising SARs on bank accounts where money laundering is suspected- either knowledge or on reasonable grounds to suspect. Protecting the bank from money launderers and ensuring it complies with national, European and international legislation so that fines imposed by the FCA are avoided. One day a week, I am allocated a day where I can focus on my personal development and select areas of my skillset that I would like to work in order to complete the scheme as a fully qualified, all round, Financial Crime professional.

I have learnt lots of new skills- systems, controls, policies and procedures. My learns on these subjects can then be applied to the work I do every day and each rotation that I participate in. I have learnt how to lead a team and work well within a team whilst maintaining focus and enthusiasm.

I enjoy the programme but as this is the only scheme of its kind, there is nothing to compare it to where senior management can enhance their vision for the programme. A lot of ideas are generated with how to improve the scheme but these are not really seen through- I am guessing this is due to budget and not enough evidence that it needs to be changed as it is the first programme of its kind in the UK. In many cases, 'the carrot is dangled in front of you' to encourage you to work harder- even if you did not need to do the task at all.

The programme is not very organised. Ever since the main scheme manager left, the programme has lacked co-ordination and drive. As this is the first scheme of its kind, organisation is lacking and rotation work is very last minute and is always 'subject to change'. Nothing is ever concrete and it does make working here feel very unstable as there doesn't appear to be any long-jevity impact with regards to the programme prospects.

I do receive a lot of benefits from my employer like sick leave and employee perks. However, when it comes to personal growth within the programme, support is lacking. Opportunities seem to be spoken about more than they are actioned which can be very demotivating for a group of young people looking to accelerate and enhance their careers. Line managers try but senior approval is often required for a lot of things which doesn't often get approved. This can be disheartening.

The learning provider BPP is supportive. Workshops are set up on a quarterly basis to help enrich our personal skillsets as well as ICA workshops for our ICA qualification. Help is always there if we need it even if it isn't very prompt. I am lucky to be in a workplace full of experienced experts of the subject who are always willing to help towards the qualification. In addition, other apprentices who have done the qualification are always encouraged to help which is good.

The qualification is great. It helps to consolidate daily learns from the job with a written assignment. Deadlines are always generous and feedback is always given very promptly which gives me confidence that I am doing a good job. It helps to know that you are qualified in what you are doing- I personally think it helps my productivity.

There are lots of events to get involved with. Social events include dog racing, drinks, quizzes. There are lots of community events you can take part in and you can use this in your overall annual review 'My Contributions'. There are sports teams to get involved with as the firm promotes healthy living like football and netball. Professional networking events are also held on a regular basis, e.g. women in business.

Yes

In a job outside the programme, organisation structure is likely to be better and promises are more likely to be kept. The Santander Culture is of a very high standard but doesn't seem to apply to everyone even though this is what is what the company claims. There are lots of benefits to working at the bank like discounts on phone contracts and flexible working is a big benefit.

Definitely ensure you have an interest in financial crime. The vision for the programme is that each apprentice transforms into a fully qualified Financial Crime professional. Put 100% in from the moment your employment starts. This will give you the best possible chance of opening yourself up to opportunities and prove to senior management that you are a capable individual. This would also enhance your later job prospects if you plan to work for the bank post graduation.