Graduates

What does Human Resources at Standard Chartered involve?
Standard Chartered operates in 56 countries with a workforce which is expanding daily. Our people are our greatest asset - and it is the role of Human Resources to make sure we get the most out of them. Human Resources involves everything from induction and personal development to strategic people management. The sheer number of different roles and responsibilities which fall under the banner of Human Resources is staggering. It is this diversity which makes Human Resources such a challenging and fulfilling place to work.

What's so special about Human Resources?
Human Resources has the potential to both directly and indirectly support the growth, expansion and development of the business. I see Human Resources as uniquely critical, with the responsibility to educate and equip all of our employees to the highest standards, and ensure that Standard Chartered remains a great place to work.

What advantages are there to starting your career in Human Resources?
Standard Chartered offers graduates great flexibility in exploring different career options during the programme. I have been exposed to all facets of Human Resources at Country and Group levels, and the variety of new projects in which you can become involved is fantastic. An International Graduate can build a network incredibly quickly, and the emphasis is to make those networks work for you.

What do you like best about your job/rotations?
The rotational nature of the programme gives you the chance to explore the Bank. My favourite part of the job is the flexibility it offers me. There are times when I act as a consultant to the team, lending fresh eyes to long-standing issues, and there are times when you have to roll up your sleeves and pitch in.

What surprised you most when you joined Standard Chartered?
The scope and breadth of Standard Chartered, both in its footprint and outlook, was probably the most surprising - and refreshing - thing I have encountered since joining. I have come to understand that, as a bank, we are wide rather than tall, and this makeup allows new starters (particularly graduates) to gain swift and lasting exposure to senior leaders at the highest levels.

Do you have any key messages for graduates thinking of joining us?
If you get the chance to speak to anyone in the marketplace, ask them for their view on Standard Chartered. In my mind this is the best way to help you understand where we stand and how much of a force for good we are in our markets.

What is the best background/skill to be successful at Standard Chartered?
I believe that if you want to be successful, in this or any other industry, you have to want and seek out responsibility, and relish the opportunity to tackle important issues. Standard Chartered will definitely offer you the chance to challenge policies, processes and outlooks. To be successful and have maximum impact, I would suggest you are ready and willing to dive in head first.