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Zoe Wigoder, Wealth & Personal Banking Industrial Placement Scheme

By HSBC

Name: Zoe Wigoder
Programme: Wealth and Personal Banking (WPB) Industrial Placement Scheme
Current Role: Business Support Officer, Wealth Propositions
University & Degree: University of Liverpool, Business Management with a Year in Industry
Favourite Movie: Wreck it Ralph 2
Fun fact about yourself: I can wiggle my ears!

Why did you join the HSBC UK industrial placement programme?

I joined HSBC UK as I thought it would be the perfect start to the working world. I knew I wanted to join a global company as I had always dreamt of working abroad so HSBC was the perfect fit. I also knew from my research that HSBC cared about diversity and inclusion which is really important to me, especially being a woman in finance.

Briefly describe your time on the programme.

My time on the programme has been the most fantastic journey. I have been so pleasantly surprised by how willing everyone is to help whenever I need advice or have a question which makes the office such a supportive atmosphere. I never thought I would be given so much autonomy however I have had the experience to get involved in side desk projects such as diversity and inclusion initiatives and the Climate Action Network which has helped to enrich me both professionally and personally. In addition to this, in my day job I have been given the task of leading on one of our propositions which is a great development opportunity which I never thought I would be given.

What has been your biggest success during your time at HSBC UK?

My biggest success during my time at HSBC has definitely been being part of the team that delivered an exciting investment product. When I first joined the team, I was unaware of all the hoops and barriers there were to launch a product and the skills I have learnt through product delivery are extremely transferable. I have developed my stakeholder management through communicating with different departments, project management through overseeing the delivery, business writing skills through completing governance papers and communication skills.

How would you describe the IP community here at HSBC UK?

The IP community is just fantastic. It is crazy to think I never knew the other IPs a year ago, everyone is so supportive, and kind and it is so lovely to know that people are happy for your successes. In addition to the IP community there is also an Early Careers Community (ECC) where everyone is helpful and fun. Being a part of the ECC makes the office an extremely warm place to visit.

How would you describe the working culture at HSBC UK?

The working culture at HSBC is brilliant, they are so supportive of having a healthy work life balance which I find makes all the employees a lot happier! All of my colleagues are supportive and willing to given up their time to help me expand my knowledge.