Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week

14 apprentices joined Kleinwort Hambros in November 2020 and are undertaking a 22-month structured programme, in which they acquire on the job experience whilst also studying for a professional qualification. Through our apprenticeship scheme, we seek to empower young people who are just starting out on their career paths and provide them with an alternative route into the financial services sector.

Kleinwort Hambros supports the East London Business Alliance (ELBA), a charity which helps Londoners secure training and employment opportunities with a focus on social mobility. The apprenticeship programme was promoted via ELBA to reach diverse talent within local communities who may experience barriers to accessing roles in financial services.

 “By providing young people with training and support to get them started on their careers, we are making the private banking sector more accessible to a diverse group of people. I would like to thank both our apprentices and employees, who are always keen to share their expertise, for helping to make the apprenticeship programme a success.” – Elena Orsini, Head of Human Resources.

To inspire others during a challenging period for young people starting out on their career journeys, our apprentices share their experiences.

Emily Soul - Apprentice IT Business Analyst

“I studied Computer Science at university and due to the pandemic, my final year was turbulent to say the least… The apprenticeship role at Kleinwort Hambros appealed to me as it was an opportunity to gain an accredited qualification, whilst putting my learning into practice in my role as a Business Analyst. I am overwhelmingly grateful to my line manager and colleagues for creating such a supportive work environment – though remote training is not always simple, help is only ever a video call or e-mail away! I am currently working towards the Level 4 IS Business Analyst qualification and look forward to continuing my career in the private banking sector.”

Samatar Youssouf – Apprentice Client Service Executive

“I learned about this apprenticeship scheme through ELBA, having previously taken part in the Parity Project which seeks to improve the employment outcomes of young Black men living in London. I was keen to take on a Front Office role and felt that the apprenticeship program offered an opportunity to gain valuable practical experience whilst also enhancing my technical skills by studying for the Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma. My current responsibilities include monitoring client portfolio holdings, stock transitions and responding to valuation, statement and audit requests. In my role, I help to deliver exceptional client service and the support and guidance that my colleagues have provided has been equally exceptional.”

Eloise Clark-Morris - Apprentice Private Banking Assistant

“As a recent Civil Engineering graduate, I wanted to choose a career that was both intellectually stimulating and that would have a positive impact. Kleinwort Hambros stood out to me because of its commitment to responsible banking – helping clients build sustainable legacies and supporting the development of local communities. Though I joined the bank just a few months ago, in my role as an Apprentice Private Banking Assistant I have already been involved in lots of new business opportunities and have good exposure to clients. This has been a steep learning curve, but I have been well supported by my colleagues throughout.”

We will shortly begin recruiting for the Kleinwort Hambros summer internship programme, starting at our 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.