Market and brand presence. The size of HBOS was the main reason that I joined the graduate programme as a business this big offers great opportunities and career potential. Being at the centre of HBOS in Group Services, means I have the chance to work with other parts of the organisation. Another big selling point was the training and personal development on offer as I've always enjoyed learning new skills and taking on challenges."
"One of the biggest challenges I face is influencing others and getting buy–in to new ways of working."
A place to test all my skills. "Over the past 18 months, I've worked as a Project Manager building transferable skills in financial management, risk analysis and reporting and I've worked closely with Vodafone on the HBOS business mobile phone account to deliver cost savings and build effective working relationships. I also spent five months in a strategic role where I was involved in driving an important project forward. Altogether, I've been immersed in many different working environments and this diversity keeps my working life fresh and exciting. There's been plenty of early responsibility, development and the chance to build a network that's 4000 colleagues strong. I've also had an active role in the recruitment of graduates into the Group Management Programme, which was a real chance to step outside my comfort zone and take on leadership responsibilities."