Spotlight – Felix Konstantin, Graduate Analyst
Why did you choose BNP Paribas for your graduate role?
I chose BNP Paribas for my graduate role for several reasons. First and foremost, I had the opportunity to intern with the bank previously and was thoroughly impressed by the culture. Compared to other places I’ve interned at, BNP Paribas stood out for its supportive and collaborative work environment. Employees at all levels are typically willing to help and teach you if you ask them, and managers are genuinely invested in the development of their junior team members.
Another reason I chose BNP Paribas is that I wanted to start my career in London after having lived and studied in Germany, the Netherlands, and France. BNP Paribas has a strong presence in London and offers a wide range of opportunities for professional growth and development. I was excited about the prospect of working in such a vibrant and dynamic city, and I knew that BNP Paribas could provide me with the resources and support I needed to succeed.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
As a Graduate Analyst, I find immense satisfaction in collaborating with seasoned professionals who are eager to impart their knowledge and entrust me with meaningful tasks and projects, rather than merely keeping me occupied.
The opportunity to learn from my own team, as well as shadow other teams, is an invaluable experience that broadens my perspective and enhances my skill set. Additionally, discovering various teams and desks that I was previously unaware of expands my understanding of the organisation’s diverse operations. The excitement of Global Markets, with their ever-changing dynamics ensuring that no two days are alike, keeps my role consistently engaging and captivating.
What advice would you give to incoming new joiners?
I would like to suggest focusing on these three key areas:
- Cultivate a growth mindset: Maintain a constant thirst for knowledge and be open to learning. Keep abreast of industry trends and technological innovations to stay curious and informed.
- Acquire valuable skills: Enhance your skillset by learning how to code in Python and mastering Excel. These tools can greatly impact your team’s daily work and make you a valuable asset.
- Demonstrate initiative: If there are straightforward yet time-consuming tasks that have been left unattended, take the initiative to tackle them. This will not only benefit your team but also showcase your dedication and free up time for your colleagues.