Meet Freddy Mbele, Quality Assurance Apprentice at Secure Trust Bank (STB) Real Estate Finance:
- What is your career path to date?
I have been at STB for around four months now. Prior to this role I did business during my A-Levels and some valuable work experience with Barclays, both sparking my interest in finance. - What are your main responsibilities?
Every month I test, review and analyse current processes. I check that services and documents are accurately maintained to the bank's high standards, ensuring a positive end-to-end experience for customers. - What challenges do you enjoy overcoming in your role?
One challenge I've overcome has been understanding the changing processes of accounts with long histories at STB. I've worked to understand why processes have changed shape over the years and used this information to help in my role. - What attracted you to the world of real estate finance?
I previously thought I wanted to be a finance broker. This opportunity has been the best of both worlds in giving me an understanding of what a broker does, while also providing insight into the world of property finance. - What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love learning about the business through communicating with my colleagues. I retain information better this way, rather than solely learning through reading policies or procedures. - What drew you to an apprenticeship rather than university?
The chance to gain hands-on experience. I know I learn by doing and being immersed in the day-to-day. This apprenticeship has allowed me to grow skills by being practically involved. I can see how I'm positively contributing to the business, which helps me to feel like a valued member of the team. - What have you learnt from on-the-job training so far?
One of the main things I've learned so far is the importance of teamwork. A deal doesn't happen overnight; team collaboration is needed to complete all the necessary processes before providing investment. - How do you feel you've settled into the business, and what are your impressions of STB now you've been in the post for a while?
Joining a new workplace is never easy, but the STB community has made it so much easier! Various events, like our recent REF Ramble fundraiser walk, have helped me to put a name to a face, allowing me to get to know my colleagues - I can ask them anything. My manager Sarah and co-worker Harry deserve shout-outs here! Harry, having been in my shoes as an apprentice, created useful internal processes and taught me how to effectively use them. Sarah guided me through training and helped me to understand all aspects of the business, she's been there if I've had any issues and coached me on how to problem-solve myself. Something that has really stood out to me is the drive to enhance customer experience. I've witnessed how much the Relationship Directors care about their customers and make themselves readily available. - What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I find creating artwork fun and calming. I like going to the gym - at least five times a week. I also value experiencing new things, whether that be museums, galleries or performances. I'm an avid concert and festival goer - I love meeting new people, creating new memories and seeing my favourite artists perform live. All Points East and Maiden Voyage are two festivals that I really enjoyed attending this year. - Do you have a favourite artist or album that you're listening to at the moment?
I got to see Kaytranada this year and he was amazing - I'm really loving his Timeless album at the moment.