Saima Ahmed
Saima AhmedManufacturing, Group Property Finance
Accountancy and Finance (MA Hons) – Heriot-Watt University
What did you know about RBS prior to working for them?
I took part in the RBS summer internship programme, so knew quite a lot about the bank already. My knowledge about the bank was supplemented by the FT and various online financial news sites, which kept me on top of current developments.
What attracted you to working for RBS?
Quite simply, the opportunities. The RBS Group is huge and the opportunities here for career development are many and varied. You can choose the career path you want here, and provided you put in the effort, you can also rise up the ranks quite quickly. The fact that RBS is changing also appealed to me. With change, comes opportunity.
Is there anything that surprised you after joining?
I expected there to be more of a gulf between senior managers and employees, to be honest. I thought the department heads would keep their distance and only talk to the people they needed to. In reality, it’s not like that at all. Senior individuals within the organisation are very approachable and very friendly. There is no “us and them” culture within RBS.
What made you decide to go into your particular business area?
I’ve always been good with numbers and my degree was relevant to the Finance programme. I also wanted to train for the ICAS qualification, and this programme allows me to do that.
Can you describe a project you’ve been involved in that’s been particularly challenging?
In my first placement I was tasked with developing the product page for the Executive Pack and helping with the forecasts. These tasks involved a great deal of work and as I was fairly new, I had to grasp new concepts very quickly. However, I received continuous support from my line manager and colleagues, which made the project a lot easier.
What training and development opportunities have you received?
At our induction week, we had numerous development days which helped to prepare us for the start of our careers. I have also been using the bank’s internal Access-2-Learning (A2L) tools, and have attended numerous training days with the support of my manager. These have seen me take courses in ‘Learning Dynamics’, ‘Presenting with Confidence’, ‘Self Assertiveness’ and ‘Introduction to Finance’.
How would you describe the culture/working environment?
Although we’re a very busy department, it’s not all about work, work, work. Teams go out for lunch together and we socialise after work. Everyone talks to each other and there is real spirit of camaraderie. It’s a great environment to work in.
What makes RBS unique?
To my mind, RBS is unique in that you are presented with numerous opportunities and given responsibility from day one. I don’t know of many companies who can provide that.
What do you enjoy most about your role and working at RBS?
I enjoy interacting with the various businesses and meeting new people every day. My role is definitely challenging but the sense of satisfaction you get when you perform well and get recognition for it, well, that makes my day!
Is there anything that you’ve found particularly difficult in your role?
Getting to grips with everything that is happening in the economy and its effects on RBS was difficult. I had a broad understanding, to be sure. But when I came into the bank, I was expected to know the finer aspects of the actions RBS was taking. That was a tough intellectual challenge.
How do you see your future with RBS?
I see lots of possibilities for personal development. Being an ambitious type, I’d like to progress up the organisation and become a key player in the future of RBS. I also wouldn’t mind taking a placement overseas in the near future.
Is there any advice you would give to future grads thinking of joining RBS?
I would advise them to get a handle on the current economic situation and its effects on the RBS Group.
What tips would you have for people joining now?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. When I first joined, I was scared of asking the ‘stupid’ questions, but it’s through these that you learn and progress. I would also advise taking the A2L courses. These have given me a solid understanding of the RBS group and have improved my skills.
What would you say to a friend considering joining RBS? How would you persuade them to join?
RBS take care of their people. The support and encouragement you get here is second to none. You’re recognised for doing good work and putting the effort in.
What are you most looking forward to in your career at RBS?
Doing an international placement and getting my ICAS qualification are at the top of my list.
