Spring Insight Programme Review

Really enjoyed the Spring Insight Programme provided by the Junior Talent Team at UBS. While the programme was completed virtually due to Coronavirus, the team went to every effort to ensure the experience was as interactive and engaging as possible. I was particularly impressed with the number of current UBS employees who gave up their time to provide insight into their roles.

Due to the virtual nature of this Spring Insight Programme it was not possible to spend time on site, which would usually have been the case. As such the oppurtunities to complete actual work were limited, however there were plentiful oppurtunities to ask questions to the experienced and knoweldgeable panel.

Lots of support of was given during the insight, from technical support with connecting over the internet, to detailed programmes and guides sent before the sessions to allow familiarisation. The HR team were always within reach to solve any problems and in general all employees encountered on the programme were very approachable.

As someone from a science (not finance) background, this programme was especially helpful in providing a view into the banking world. The introductory seminar provided at the start of the programme helped level the playing field by providing a overview of Investment Banking and Asset Management. The Innonvation Lab session also gave a variety of targets to improve soft skills, which will be beneficial in my degree studies.

The insight was very well organised and structured. A programme was sent out before the insight began detailing the dates and times of each session. This allowed us to research the topics and speakers prior to the session to ensure we got the most out of them. Time keeping was generally sound, and allowed plenty of time for lunch breaks etc.

The atmosphere was generally upbeat and engaging, which was impressive given the virtual nature. The organisers went to every effort to keep everyone engaged, and the speakers were very interesting and eager to answer questions. For example, ending each day with a new song! Definitely gave a positive reflection into the general atmosphere at UBS.

"Day in the life of" sessions with employees in various departments gave a real insight into a full time role with UBS. They gave a true picture of aspects such as hours, culture and typical work roles and CPD. From group technology to Global Banking, I feel as though I have a very holistic view of UBS.

Every speaker corroborated the general culture at UBS. For example, the encouraged mobility in moving around different departments, the support given by seniors through mentoring and the various social oppurtunities such as the football teams found on the trading floor. The employees were very aware of sustainability issues and keen to talk about their volunteering roles, for example.

The content was very helpful as before this insight i had only a very limited view into the day to day roles of a career in banking. Having completed this programme I am much more knowledgeable in the various sectors at UBS, and particular speakers have piqued my interest which gives me options to further reasearch.

Seeing as the programme was completed virtually, there were no expenses to reimburse and it is not expected to be paid for a spring insight programme. However, prior to being informed the programme was being taken online I believe there were reimbursements available for travel expenses and such related costs.

Virtually every speaker on the programme was open to receiving LinkedIn connections and/or questions via email so there were plenty of oppurtunites to network with the employees. Once again due to coronavirus there was no face to face networking possible, but i was very impressed with the oppurtunites available regardless.

Would definitely recommend this insight to a friend. It's a short programme open to people from a variety of backgrounds and definitely gives valuable insights into the banking world, even if you have very little prior knowledge. On the other hand, if you already have some experience and know what sector you want to go into, there will be oppurtunities to talk more in depth with relevant experts in that field.