RBS Risk

Deborah Simms
RBS Risk
Management & Italian (BA) - UCL


What did you know about RBS prior to working for them?

I knew quite a bit about the various brands within the RBS Group; the bank had just purchased ABN AMRO, so was receiving a lot of media attention. I also did my own background research as well.

What attracted you to working for RBS?

The RBS programme offered me the opportunity to explore different areas of Risk. I was also attracted to the global nature of the bank, and the opportunities that opened up for travel and international exposure.

Is there anything that surprised you after joining?

The level of exposure you get to senior management as a graduate here was very surprising.

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

I studied Risk Management for a couple of modules at university and really enjoyed them. I wanted to learn more about the field.

What training and development opportunities have you received?

Before joining the team, I attended a training course in regulatory risk in Dublin. Since then, I’ve been studying for the professional Financial Risk Manager qualification, through a mixture of formal course modules and on-the-job training.

How would you describe the culture/working environment? 

Everyone works hard but it’s generally a very friendly, open atmosphere. People are prepared to help each other out.

What makes RBS unique?

The resources they dedicate to developing their graduates are second to none. I also don’t know of any graduate programme that has this level of flexibility either.

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

I have to say it’s the people I work with. They really are supportive and helpful. I also like the fact that I’m gaining new responsibilities all the time. That’s very important too.

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

Learning about all the different regulatory frameworks in other countries was particularly challenging. The obligations overseas are often very different to those expected by our own FSA.

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

It’s still early days. I haven’t experienced Credit or Market Risk, so I can’t say which area I’d like to specialise in as yet. All I know for certain is that my future is here at RBS. I’m looking forward to gaining new responsibilities and gaining a deeper knowledge of my chosen risk area – whatever that might be!

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

Try and learn as much as you can about the area you’re applying to.

What tips would you have for people joining now?

Try to get involved as much as you can, ask as many questions as you need, and just generally try to absorb as much information as possible. If there’s something you want to try, ask for it.

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

It’s a very friendly environment to work in. If you put a lot in, you will get a lot out of working here. It’s a great time to learn.

What happened on your best ever day at RBS?

The Christmas party last year was great fun. We drove to a spa hotel in the Irish countryside and had a joint Christmas party for the Dublin and Belfast teams. As well as a lovely dinner, we had a quiz and a secret Santa. A good time was had by all.

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

Finding the area of Risk that I want to specialise in.

How do you spend your benefit funding?

I spend it on my pension and dental care.