Jasmine Kohli loved her experience with Lloyds Banking Group Returners Program. She shares her journey from anxious Returner to thriving Relationship Manager.
Why did you decide to apply for the Lloyds Banking Group Returners Program?
After a 3-year career break, I was anxious about returning to the banking sector. The Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) Returners Program was the first opportunity that acknowledged my anxieties and supported my journey back into doing something I loved. Within my network, I enquired to those who were already working at LBG and their responses around the overall culture were resoundingly positive.
What was your experience of the program?
“During the recruitment process, I found HR incredibly empathetic and helpful to my needs as a parent. I wanted to work with a flexible working arrangement and to my surprise, this wasn’t a contentious issue.”
I loved the format of the program. I really valued how the induction included an introduction to the Group, and an opportunity to learn about its different Divisions. It was also great to meet and connect with fellow returners in my cohort and share experiences. Almost two years later and we are still all in contact.
When I moved into the Commercial office, it was great to be in an actual role, where I was able to make a difference. I feared I would end up doing only administrative tasks, but I was able to perform the full functions of the day job. It was really motivating and enjoyable.
What’s life like in Lloyds Banking Group since rolling off the program?
While COVID-19 has slightly changed my experience, I now have my own portfolio of customers and am enjoying building relationships with both colleagues and customers alike.
There are plenty of opportunities outside of my core role. For example, I have become the Inclusion & Diversity champion for the region and am working with colleagues from around the country to help make SME (small and medium enterprises) and MC (mid-corporates) a more inclusive place to work. It’s something I am hugely passionate about.
“I am also involved in the Women in Leadership program; the Group’s Sponsorship Program and finally the Midlands and South Wales Senior Leadership Academy which are designed to help colleagues with their career development plan.”
Your advice to someone who’s thinking of applying…
Do it!
“You will be surprised to see how committed the Group is to ensure a flexible, inclusive, and diverse working culture. This is by no means a tick box exercise and in fact, a unique, well-thought out and superbly executed program, which delivers on its promises.”
More details around the Returners Program
The Lloyds Banking Group Returners Program is dedicated to talented professionals who have taken a break from their career and are now ready to return to work.
Recognizing how the transition back to work can be a challenge this 16-week internship program is designed to overcome these challenges, with the aim of offering you a permanent position if the placement is successful.
To qualify, you’ll need to be returning from a break of (minimum) two years and whilst you’re likely to have worked within professional services or banking, it’s your experience, drive and transferable leadership skills that are important.
To find out about the program and how you can apply, please click here to our Returners hub.
