Bank of America Merrill Lynch opens applications for sixth returning talent programme

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Applications are now open for Bank of America Merrill Lynch’s Returning Talent programme in Chester. The programme aims to help people prepare for re-entering the workforce – a former stay-at-home parent or carer, or someone who chose to take a career gap to support a partner serving within the Armed Forces, for example. People who have been out of work for a year or more are invited to apply via the company’s careers site. The application closing date is 31 July.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch is looking to attract individuals from a range of industry backgrounds, including professional, financial services and technology, with experience in (but not limited to) finance, business, project or relationship management, banking operations and technology. The company is specifically looking to source suitable candidates from the programme to fill positions in their Chester-based Global Technology and Operations (GT&O) team. Roles include: finance analysts, product control specialists, treasury servicing advisors, business and operations analysts, project and programme managers, and technical help desk and infrastructure support personnel.

The 2017 Chester programme seeks to build on the success of the London, Dublin and 2016 Chester offerings. Taking place on 18 and 19 September, the 2017 programme will offer 25 participants the opportunity to attend a two-day conference aimed at exploring the changing workplace and the role of the returner in this new office environment. Participants will hear from guest speakers and participate in a series of workshops designed to support a transition back to work; offer practical guidance on focusing and managing a career search; and provide executive coaching, interview skills sessions and insights into balancing work and home lives. There will also be opportunities for participants to start building their professional connections through a series of networking opportunities with bank employees.

Neeha Khurana, International Talent executive at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, said: “The Returning Talent programme is a great example of the value and importance we place on identifying strong and diverse talent across our business. Through initiatives such as this, we are able to give people at all stages of their lives and careers the support, confidence, skills, and inspiration to succeed in the financial services marketplace. Following the success of last year’s inaugural programme in Chester, we are very excited about the talent we will find in 2017.”

Lata Ravle, a 2016 Returning Talent participant who has since joined the company’s Banking and Markets Operations team, said: “I found last year’s programme to be incredibly motivating. After an eight-year break from financial services, Returning Talent provided me an ideal platform to meet people with different areas of expertise who were in the same boat as me. I am now working with a great team of people here at the bank, and I feel a sense of pride and achievement in what I’ve already accomplished. My advice to others is that it is never too late to progress your career. I definitely recommend Bank of America Merrill Lynch’s Returning Talent programme to people who perhaps need that little push to pursue their career goals and dreams.”

Six years ago, Bank of America Merrill Lynch pioneered one of the first returner programmes for experienced professionals – mainly women. The company’s progress in this area, as well as its ongoing commitment to develop its female talent, won it the 2015 Workingmums.co.uk’s Top Employer Award for Career Progression. The company has an established alumni network of past Returning Talent participants, allowing them to keep in touch, network and share experiences and knowledge.

 

 

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