Commercial Banking Intern Review

Great experience and exposure to the Bank. Given the opportunity to meet and collaborate with a wide range of people spanning multiple teams, really getting involved with front-line operations. Colleagues were friendly and approachable, providing support and assistance where required. However, interns were still given a large degree of autonomy and trusted to work independently.

Strongly valued by team-members and management. Supported and led initially, yet given a high degree of independence once topics were understood and tasks set. Experience used by open-minded colleagues to promote creative thinking and new approaches - us interns were constantly encouraged to play an active part in change and ideation.

From personal experience, my direct line manager(s) have been a pleasure to work for. Initially difficult to communicate (leading to some confusion regarding tasks and processes) due to a combination of Annual Leave and the fact that my manager mostly works from home, but once technology was embraced and I'd settled in, the on-going support and experience has been superb.

As in any fast-paced business, daily tasks can fluctuate. Some days had an extremely full "to do" list, whilst others were more manageable. Reduced workload could likely be agreed with managers, but I personally enjoy the challenge of time-management and a fast-paced environment. Adoption of outlook's calendar tool really helped plan out my day, leading to much more efficient management of activities.

As interns, its understandable that larger or high profile decisions must be escalated to management, and the regulatory requirement of a large bank still restricts many activities for lower-ranking staff. That said, suitable tasks were identified and set, allowing for some independence and autonomy. Whilst key deliverables are often still checked by superiors and colleagues, work in practice is seldom disturbed.

Limited relevance for my degree studies (Accounting and Finance) and future profession within Audit. However, transferrable skills such as time-management and communication were pivotal tools developed during my time at RBS. Such skills would be useful in any modern business, and the focus on self-development has been superlative. Networking is openly encouraged, and external activities (if relevant) accommodated well.

Office environment varies significantly with business area and office location. For example, the Coutts brand is very strict and 'proper' in comparison to some other, back-office style roles. Most interns are based in Bishopsgate, with one office labelled the "fun" office for its contemporary working style, with the other more traditional. Many individuals in London work part of the week from home.

Average experience with the logistics of the internship. Poor and aged technological systems require over a full working day to gain access, with the book of usernames and passwords overly excessive. IT and HR teams are outsourced to AI tools and international help-centres with varying degrees of competence and ability. Building access still not possible after 5 weeks of continued chasing.

Strong focus on self-development and progression. The firm has made a considerable financial and resourcing investment on each intern, focussing on skills building and personal development. It is likely that the firm is prepared to do this to attract the best talent for future careers, as it accompanies a strong retention rate and focus on graduate employment.

Because of the continued focus on professional development, and wide variety of roles available, RBS is a strong candidate for future employment. However, it is important to spend personal time researching the company structure and business areas, as the large hierarchy makes comprehension difficult. Other opportunities should not be ignored, but RBS would be an organisation I'd be more than willing to work alongside in the future.

Average to good.

Central London, very high

N/A

Little set up specifically, but options are available to meet friends outside of the office.