Class of 2021 graduate Joe Lange is a Risk Graduate at The Co-operative Bank. We asked Joe what his role involves, how he landed it and his advice for students.
What advice do you have for final-year ULMS students who will soon become new graduates?
I found the transition a big step up in terms of responsibility but if you take on the new challenge and push yourself you will soon find it is very rewarding. My advice for applying for graduate roles would be to utilise your network, even if not directly applicable to the company you’re applying to when finishing your studies. This can add untold value to your application.
What does your role as a Risk Graduate involve?
I have had various placements across the Risk function from which I have learned a vast amount. My first placement in Enterprise and Operational Risk involved assurance work on the Bank’s Risk Management Framework and organising a Bank-wide Risk Culture Survey.
My current placement in Capital (Treasury Reporting and MI) has allowed me to get involved in important regulatory submissions such as the Bank’s ICAAP and Recovery plan. Both placements have helped to further develop my knowledge of banking and have tested my professional capabilities.
What was the application process like at The Co-operative Bank? Do you have any pointers for others looking to apply there?
The application process was both challenging and rewarding, it required an understanding of the Bank and the Financial Services industry, and showcasing critical thinking and presentation skills.
My advice to anyone applying to the Co-operative Bank or anywhere else for that matter is; to understand the company that you want to work for and ensure your beliefs align and that you’re interested in the work they get involved in.
Finally, how did your time as a student prepare you for your current role?
I studied Accounting and Finance at university so the skills, behaviours and knowledge I gained from my degree have helped me immensely when starting my career at the Bank. Having already gained a knowledge base in a broad range of areas such as Audit and Financial Reporting has given me a starting point to succeed in the early days of my career within Financial Services.
My study abroad period at Copenhagen Business School in Denmark gave me a different learning perspective and it was also great for my development as a young professional.