Working culture in financial services
Jobs in financial services include roles in investment banking, asset management, hedge funds, private equity houses, insurance and other environments. One thing they all have in common is that they are broadly team-based cultures. The work is challenging, the environments are relatively youthful and energetic and the learning curve is as steep as anywhere.
Environments change from firm to firm but typically Investment Banks are meritocratic institutions, with an emphasis on excellence and teamwork required to produce timely results. Generally there is also opportunity to be entrepreneurial; process improvements and new ideas are always welcome, especially due to the complex nature of many of the transactions dealt with.
It is undoubtedly a competitive world demanding candidates with a strong business focus and keen attention to detail. Client contact is pretty extensive too and this means that professionals with a demonstrable track record of building effective external business relationships will be in demand. Most Investment Banks are also global institutions, so there is always opportunity for travel.
External liaison, an analytical mind and an ability to learn quickly are all key as you will be challenged – your development curve will be steep. However the opportunities in banking and financial services are diverse and career paths are unlimited for the right individuals.
Working culture in the public sector
In many roles in the UK public sector, you will find yourself working at the heart of policy reform and work with individuals responsible for defining our society today. The public sector of old is no more, with efficiency drivers such as the Gershon review continuously striving for a more proactive and forward thinking sector. These measures have opened up endless opportunities for dynamic and commercially thinking individuals to really make a difference.
Jobs in the public sector can provide the ideal environment if you want a good fit between time spent inside and outside work. A typical flexi-time scheme involves committing to a core time (when you must be at your post), and making up the rest of your hours when it suits you. Other forms of flexible working include switching from full-time to part-time, working in term times only and taking career breaks.
Through such schemes public sector staff have more control over their working routine, which is particularly beneficial to employees with parental responsibilities and those who want to make the best of their spare time. In return employers gain a more contented and committed workforce which is less likely to want to move elsewhere.
To remain competitive in the market for talent, public sector organisations tend to offer outstanding study support, CPD and PRINCE2 sponsorship. This makes the sector attractive for those looking to develop their careers in finance and also in Project and Programme Management.
If you are looking for a career that can provide development support, fantastic work life balance and exciting challenges that continuously change with government, this just might be the sector for you.
