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Getting into Banking (SQL/Datawarehousing)

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    Getting into Banking (SQL/Datawarehousing)

    Hi Guys

    Just looking for advice to help me in the long-term.

    I am currently into my 2nd 3 month contract of my first gig. I am working in the insurance industry but providing solutions to major banking clients (Barclays, RBS, HBOS, Lloyds). I am wanting to get into Development in the banking sector in London (because i am enthusiastic about it not just because of the money {although the money side does make it more appealing}).

    Does anybody have any advice for how to get their foot in the door as it seems practically impossible without the banking experience (catch 22).

    Thanks guys

    #2
    A consultancy with banking clients can probably sell you into a bank based on the job experience you describe. Putting the right slant on your CV is crucial

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      #3
      Originally posted by NorthWestPerm2Contr View Post
      Hi Guys

      Just looking for advice to help me in the long-term.

      I am currently into my 2nd 3 month contract of my first gig. I am working in the insurance industry but providing solutions to major banking clients (Barclays, RBS, HBOS, Lloyds). I am wanting to get into Development in the banking sector in London (because i am enthusiastic about it not just because of the money {although the money side does make it more appealing}).

      Does anybody have any advice for how to get their foot in the door as it seems practically impossible without the banking experience (catch 22).

      Thanks guys
      Well, SQL is pretty much standard on everyone's cv these days, so that isn't going to help much. And datawarehousing - did 5 years solid of it myself about 10 years ago - isn't really in great demand in Banking. I'd focus more on your "insurance" experience (and I've done that type of work here in London). There are quite a few roles that pop up on Jobserve in that market - i.e. Marsh Insurance (Tower Bridge and Docklands) is a big name that everyone seems to do a stint at (me included.) Maybe take that route first to get yourself established here; your cv will look a lot better if in shows you are currently working for a client in City/Docklands/West End in the financial industry.

      Beyond that, what are your skills? Most of the "banking" roles on Jobserve are for Java or C# people, so I'd make sure you are pretty solid on at least one of those and their associated toolsets. Maybe look at getting in Retail Banking first (seems that's what most of your current client's base is); the rates are lower, but it is banking "proper". That's the route I took about 3 years ago and it's worked out fine for me. And also the other point made by the previous poster: go via a consultancy. Again, you'll get hit rate-wise, but you just want the experience and banking client on your cv at this point so accept the hit. But do remember, a lot - most - of the roles on Jobserve in "banking" are "investment" banking, and retail banking experience won't guarantee you a foot in the door in that. Still, it won't do you any harm either.

      Also, have a look at which banking clients use the package you are working on; maybe one of those is looking for an 'on site' guy to do the same work? Mind you, you'll have to check any contract restrictions for working for clients of your current client.
      nomadd liked this post

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        #4
        I am pretty good with C#. Done it for a couple of years and up to 3.5. However I am much more leaning towards Databases and have had no trouble finding permie or contract roles.

        Comment


          #5
          Originally posted by NorthWestPerm2Contr View Post
          I am pretty good with C#. Done it for a couple of years and up to 3.5. However I am much more leaning towards Databases and have had no trouble finding permie or contract roles.
          May be SouthEastPerm2Contr would be a better name.

          c# is popular in the banks down here (London), do a search on itjobswatch, seems to be plenty going.

          Usually in the range 400-600 pd.
          Never has a man been heard to say on his death bed that he wishes he'd spent more time in the office.

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