Group Risk Graduate Phil

Meet Phil

Why did you choose BOQ?

My sister was a past employee at BOQ and recommended I apply for the program because it has one of the best organisational cultures she has experienced so far in her working career.

Tell us about life at BOQ? How would you describe the culture at BOQ?

I can’t begin to express how happy my experience has been since starting at BOQ. It is a culture like no other and there is a sincere appreciation for living our corporate values. The people here are friendly and genuinely make the effort to ensure that you feel like you are part of the team. The Chief Risk Officer and senior leaders all work in the same area as the rest of our team with no walls dividing us, so there is that true sense of collaboration and openness.

What’s your day-to-day role?

I am currently working as a Risk Analyst within Operational Risk and Compliance. My role includes familiarising myself with requirements of the different frameworks, legislations and policies and applying this knowledge, along with skillsets I have developed during university, to complete a variety of projects assigned to me within different areas of Operational Risk and Compliance.

What does a typical day look like for a graduate in their first four weeks?

Simply put, one minute I can be shown by my buddy how to assess an incident report - the next item on my schedule can be morning tea in the executive boardroom with the Chief Risk Officer and senior leaders. My days at work really are filled with variety and opportunities to learn and develop strong relationships with all levels within the organisation.

Any highlights?

BOQ runs many social events to encourage us to build relationships with people outside of our immediate teams. My favourite so far was trivia night where I was able to get to know new work mates from other departments in a social setting.

Best thing about your role?

The opportunity to make a real difference. Keeping the interests of our customers and the future of our organisation as our main priority, I am able to work together with others who are likeminded to create and implement ideas that will result in positive outcomes that can potentially affect all facets of the organisation.

What would you say to someone who is interested in applying for a BOQ Graduate Program?

If you are looking for the opportunity to work for a great organisation that will set you up for success in your post-university career, then apply for BOQ. Many of my friends who have had graduate positions at similar and larger organisations are often in awe by the opportunities that have been provided for me so far. BOQ goes above and beyond to ensure that they invest in you as much as you are willing to invest in them.

Group Risk Graduate Sophia

Meet Sophia

Why did you choose BOQ?

There were two things that led me to BOQ:

1. Company research led me to see what BOQ was all about in terms of encompassing the values and vision that I was looking for within a company. I truly believe you will love where you work if you share the mutual core values and vision that your company does.

2. The program was extremely appealing because it gives exposure to so many different areas within the Risk Sector.

Tell us about life at BOQ? How would you describe the culture at BOQ?

Life at BOQ is so exciting! There’s a new task given to me each day and there is so much I’m learning. The culture here is among the friendliest companies I’ve worked for. Everyone is really accommodating with training, and very warm and welcoming.

What’s your day-to-day role?

I work within AML/CTF in Data Analytics and Operations. Day-to-day I’m usually digging around in data, making sense of spreadsheets and helping build meaning behind what is on the screen. I’m also taking part in operations and shadowing team members to gain more exposure to the systems and processes used.

What does a typical day look like for a graduate in their first four weeks?

A typical day will be shadowing a team member and asking a lot of questions. There are also heaps of social events which give you exposure to senior leaders of the business and reflection sessions held weekly which help you practice mindfulness and gain insight on your time from the week prior.

Any highlights?

Meeting the people I get to spend my week with. I feel very lucky to get to spend my time with like-minded people who share common goals.

Best thing about your role?

I’m always on my toes. There’s always something new in my day and it brings excitement and challenges.

What would you say to someone who is interested in applying for a BOQ graduate program?

Research the company and make sure it is the right fit for you. If you want to work somewhere where you feel supported day in - day out, and are up for a challenge and great colleagues, you’re looking in the right place.