Maxim Armour

Maxine Armour
Technology Analyst
Civil Engineering (BEng) – Bristol University

What did you know about RBS prior to working for them? Did you have any preconceptions?

I knew RBS was one of the top multinational banks with a growing presence in US and Asia.

What attracted you to working for RBS?

With their expansion in Asia, and in particular Tokyo, the opportunity to work for RBS out there was a big attraction to me. Also, I believed the ABN AMRO integration would bring with it a great deal of IT challenges – which would be a valuable experience for someone like me.

Is there anything that surprised you after joining or that you found different to your expectations?

Although the work is challenging and the people dedicated, the atmosphere is relaxed in our office. This was something I hadn’t expected of a huge multinational bank.

What made you decide to go into your particular business area?

I have always had an interest in technology, but having worked as an IT contractor in other banks before, I particular enjoyed engaging with end users and working together to create solutions that meet business needs.

What training and development opportunities have you received?

The first two months of graduate training I received were excellent, covering everything from presentation skills and networking to Java programming and Databases. We also had guest speakers talk about the various systems and IT architecture within RBS. This allowed us to connect the theory we learned in the classroom with the practice in the wider business.

After the scheme is finished, I will be attending a course on project management and a fixed income trading course. I believe these will nicely compliment my technology skills.

How would you describe the culture/working environment?  

The people I work with are very good in their disciplines, so the atmosphere is highly professional. Even so, when project deadlines are close, it can get quite hectic. Everybody here, though, is incredibly friendly and willing to help you if you ask them.

What makes RBS unique?

Compared to other banks I’ve worked at, the people here work together much more closely towards a common goal. The nature of IT today means you need the help and support of other parts of the business to successfully complete projects. Every time I’ve asked for that support here, it’s always been forthcoming. You can count on people here.

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at RBS?

Right now, I’m working as a Java developer on a front office system and the knowledge I’m gaining is invaluable. I also really like the fact that I have opportunity to learn more about the business side of our systems.

Is there anything that you’ve found particularly challenging or difficult in your role?

As a developer, learning the front office system was a difficult and time-consuming process. I had to understand a system which had been worked on by several teams of developers over several years. It was a daunting challenge, but the team helped by assigning tasks to me in small portions. It’s been a few months, and I now have a fairly good feel of the overall system, though mastering its finer points could take a while yet.

How do you see your future with RBS?  What are you looking forward to?

I’d love to work in the Tokyo office as I’ve always wanted to live there. As well as improving my developer skills, I would also like to experience project management and business analysis roles as well.

Is there any advice you would give to future grads thinking of joining RBS?

Find out about RBS and keep up to speed on current financial news. Practice your presentation and team-working skills.

What tips would you have for people joining now?

Take every opportunity that comes your way.

What would you say to a friend considering joining RBS? How would you persuade them to join?

RBS offers you very good work-life balance. You’ll also have the chance to work with some of the best people in the business.

What happened on your best ever day at RBS?

The day I was offered a permanent position in my current development team was my best so far. It was a real milestone for me.

What are you most looking forward to in your career at RBS?

I’m looking forward to learning more about the business side of our systems, and getting involved with more international projects.

How do you spend your benefit funding?

Mostly on medical insurance.