Banking is not just trading floors, say HSBC grad

Banking is a broad and diverse industry according to a graduate at international bank HSBC. Many graduates think a bank is a vast trading floor in a tall glass skyscraper or a local friendly bank on the high street, but one HSBC graduate wants to show there is a variety of career paths to be taken within the banking sector.

Jessica studied at the University of Loughborough before she joined HSBC's Retail Banking and Wealth Management Graduate Programme in 2014 and says she received the opportunity to work in a range of departments and functions.

"The Retail Banking and Wealth Management graduate programme gives you the chance to experience a variety of roles," Jessica says.

"I have been a Sales and Service Manager within the branch network, a Digital Analyst within the Digital Centre of Excellence and a Campaign Manager within UK Marketing."

Jessica says her time in Marketing was the most exciting and fulfilling of her roles to date.

"As a Campaign Manager in Marketing my role is to manage the development and implementation of multi-channel marketing campaigns," she explains. "I have helped on the mortgage campaign which is on television and in newspapers and it is rewarding to see my influence in creative materials that help the bank market its products and services."

HSBC does not offer roles in London's traditional financial districts, but has opportunities open nationwide. However, Jessica sees her future beyond the UK's shores.

"I hope to join HSBC's International Management programme after completing my graduate programme. It allows you to live and work in countries around the world and this appeals to me enormously."

Find more careers in Banking or learn more about HSBC's Graduate and Internship opportunities.

Image credit: Gordon Williams