Junior Analyst Review

I hold the corporate title of 'Junior Analyst', working in Portfolio Management I work to collate, chase, and proof-read reports for all projects in our division. On a day-to-day basis I work through these reports, help with various ad hoc tasks, manage and develop a website for use by the division, and work towards developing my own technical skills while keeping my Apprenticeship coursework in mind. In a day the nature of my tasks see me interacting with a number of fellow employees when chasing reports, while working with my manager has me referring to him as needed. Developing technical skills involves interacting with a number of interns who're happy to help support my learning.

I have undertaken a multitude of internal training courses relevant to Investment Banking and the various degrees of policy compliance that working at a bank entails. In my spare time I am working towards developing skills in Java, PHP, and HTML. Externally I attend courses with my apprenticeship provider (QA) to develop business skills in databases, programming, system development life cycles, and more. On top of this are the various 'soft' skills crucial to being in a work environment - communication, meetings, collaboration.

Overall I am very happy with my placement at Nomura, the work environment and benefits are fantastic. My team are welcoming and happy to help when asked. The company culture is excellent. Nomura exceeded my expectations in many ways.

Recognition and appreciation by my manager is readily given, though my responsibilities are still somewhat minor. Overall I feel well-valued.

QA apprenticeships are generally very good when it comes to organising courses, though the tone is somewhat laid-back - which is not necessarily a criticism. The support from tutors is overall strong.

The policies toward support for apprentices are very encouraging, and tutors are general helpful in-centre. Support from tutors outside of training courses is a little more remote, but still present.

All areas of support are easily sought and received. Availability is high on demand.

My salary is very supportive of my expenses toward work life.

The company has many opportunities for activities and events, inclusive communities, and leisure/sports facilities.

Yes

Nomura is a great opportunity for starting and developing a career for the various reasons detailed above.

Be wary of the many initial interviews!