In November 2020, Kleinwort Hambros welcomed 14 apprentices on its 22 month-long Apprenticeship Scheme, which aims to provide young people with an opportunity to upskill and access a career in private banking.
As part of Societe Generale and Kleinwort Hambros’ wider support of the East London Business Alliance (ELBA)* the programme was promoted via ELBA to reach diverse talent within local communities who may experience barriers to accessing roles in financial services, providing the opportunity to apply for full-time positions at Kleinwort Hambros across its offices.
Fully embracing new, virtual ways of working, the programme has enabled apprentices to acquire on the job experience and develop a range of digital, technical and soft skills across Commercial, Client Solution Services, Risk, Operations, Company Secretarial and IT departments, whilst gaining a professional qualification.
In addition, Kleinwort Hambros will soon begin recruiting for its summer internship programme, starting at its Jersey Office in July. With six positions available, the 12-week scheme is aimed at recent graduates seeking to gain experience in financial services and will offer them the opportunity to apply for a full-time trainee position at the end of the scheme. This is a continuation of the business’ commitment to supporting and equipping young people with the knowledge and skills they need to embark on a career.
Elena Orsini, Head of HR at Kleinwort Hambros, comments: “Through numerous initiatives including our apprenticeship scheme and internship programme, and with our knowledgeable team of employees who are keen to share their expertise, Kleinwort Hambros is proud to be making financial services a more diverse and inclusive sector. By providing young people with training and support to get them started on their careers, we are making the sector more accessible and ensuring the industry is future-fit.
“This is a hugely exciting opportunity for Kleinwort Hambros to enrich our diverse community of talented employees, as we seek to grow our business and become the leading, responsible bank for client service and expertise.”
To inspire others during a challenging period for young people starting out on their career journeys, a current apprentice at Kleinwort Hambros shares his experience:
Samatar Youssouf, Apprentice Client Service Executive: “I learned about this apprenticeship scheme through the East London Business Alliance (ELBA). I was keen to take on a Front Office role and felt that the programme offered an opportunity to gain valuable practical experience whilst also enhancing my technical skills by studying for the Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma. In my role, I help to deliver exceptional client service and the support and guidance that my colleagues have provided has been equally exceptional.”
*The East London Business Alliance builds connections between businesses and local communities, leveraging the time, skills and resources of the private sector, to help build the capacity of local community organisations, support young people in education and place people into employment in London. Societe Generale Group has worked with ELBA for 14 years.