I like to call my pursuit in the graduate world as my affirmative ‘mid-life’ crisis. Having studied a combined Law/Commerce (Finance) degree, I began my legal professional career and decided that my passion actually was for Banking and Finance. I pursued an Honours degree and began my graduate career hunt. What really attracted me to the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank grad program, was their focus and commitment to the individual, wonderful company culture and ‘big-picture’ dynamic. Even their advertising was different, and at all times you were treated as a potential employee, not a numbered applicant. I accepted an offer from BEN over other institutions, as I felt that they were committed to excellence and offered a more tailored program.
The opportunities BEN have given me are a wonderful example of how an organisation values a broad range of skill sets. Every day I utilise my Legal and Finance knowledge and am offered so many challenges that I am never bored. One of the best aspects is that I feel I am actually achieving something in my role, delivering real work with tangible outcomes.
I have been fortunate to have worked within Finance and Treasury, Superannuation, Rural Bank and Business Banking. Some of my highlights are working with the Executive team on the Bank’s response to the Financial System Inquiry, preparing a response to the Basel Committee on Banking Standards, developing and presenting outcomes of Rural Bank’s Business Continuity Program to the Board and working on the Bank’s ISDA/ OTC Derivatives reconciliation project. The exposure you get to the Executive and Senior Management team is brilliant.
The graduate program is highly regarded here at the bank. Colleagues realise that you have worked super hard to become a graduate and you are highly respected – yet also given a wealth of support and development. Often there are situations where I am unsure as to what my next move will be or am really nervous about presenting an important paper. This is where the mentoring program really adds value, as I have a fantastic mentor who is highly engaged and is focused on my success.
If you are committed to your own personal success and are driven by excellence, than I suggest you apply!