Unlocking Success: Kenny’s journey as a Graduate at Standard Chartered

What was it like entering the corporate world for the first time?

Entering the corporate world for the first time was both daunting and exciting. Having previously interned at a startup where things were less organised and structured, I found working in a larger corporate organisation to be more structured in terms of day-to-day work. The only downside initially was the need to dress formally, but luckily, that is not a requirement at Standard Chartered. Overall, the feeling of excitement outweighed any concerns I had.

Is there anything that would surprise people about working for a large bank?

Not every part of the Bank solely deals with money. There are diverse roles and departments beyond traditional banking functions. Additionally, the notion that a large bank's technology stack is outdated is not true. Standard Chartered is actively adopting modern technologies and pushing boundaries in the industry.

What is your favourite thing about your job in the Technology team?

The constant new challenges I face every day. Being a part of the Technology team means working on different projects and adapting to changes. The recent shift to ADO (Application Development Operations) has been particularly interesting. I feel like I'm always learning and my job never gets monotonous.

How would you describe the culture at Standard Chartered?

In the technology department, the hierarchy is relatively flat. Line managers are very helpful and are happy to provide guidance whenever needed. The Bank promotes accessible learning for engineers through initiatives like Axess Academy, ensuring continuous skill development.

How should someone prepare for an interview with Standard Chartered?

Familiarise yourself with the job description you're applying for. If it's a tech role, sharpen your algorithm skills. Additionally, learn how to present and sell yourself effectively.

What would you say to a graduate who is nervous about the value they can bring to their role, being straight out of university?

Remember that everyone starts from somewhere, and there's nothing to worry about. You will do fine. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow, and trust in your abilities to make a valuable contribution.

Line managers are very helpful and are happy to provide guidance whenever needed. The Bank promotes accessible learning for engineers ensuring continuous skill development

Kenny Ho Analyst, Development