Every year we take ten graduates into our sought-after Graduate Programme in different locations in the Group across Europe and Asia. In September, UBP was pleased to welcome a new cohort of young talents freshly graduated from university, and to congratulate last year’s intake on the completion of their one-year induction cycle and celebrate their assignment to a fixed role.
Welcoming the new graduates
This season marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the new arrivals, who will embark on a twelve-month rotation across various departments, locations, and teams before they settle into their future roles. This immersive experience is designed to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the Bank’s operations, equipping them with the knowledge and connections needed to build a strong foundation for their careers.
Their learning journey kicked off in September with a two-day induction programme in Geneva. Our graduates had the opportunity to meet key UBP specialists, leaders, and some of our Graduate Programme alumni. A live-stream was set up to enable our two graduate joiners in Asia to attend some of the sessions and e-meet their peers in Europe.
This induction was not just about learning the ropes; it was about immersing the graduates into UBP’s culture, values, and vision. Combined with the 12-month rotation plan that follows, this comprehensive onboarding experience ensures that the graduates are well prepared to thrive at UBP.
"The Graduate Days in Geneva were an incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. The warm atmosphere and engaging sessions made it a truly memorable experience."
Christian Abd El Nour, Graduate, ESG, Zurich
One year on…
After their twelve-month rotation, the graduates take on their fixed role at UBP. But before they move on, their Graduate Programme concludes with a conference over two half-days. Featuring talks by Graduate Programme alumni, presentations by selected experts, and networking opportunities, it ends with a ceremony celebrating the completion of this stage of their training.
These ‘Programme Graduation Ceremonies’ for the 2024 intake took place in late September in Zurich for the EMEA graduates and in mid-October in Hong Kong for our Asia graduates.
"The programme is a masterfully designed bridge between school and the real world. I gained invaluable exposure while actively contributing to meaningful projects. It’s a rare opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact, all at the same time."
Klinsman Chu, Fund Analyst, Investment Services North Asia
The UK scheme
The equivalent at UBP UK is called the Apprenticeship Scheme and is designed as a client-facing programme within the private banking sector offering trainees a well-rounded introduction to the industry. Over the course of the 22-month programme, trainees complete three rotations across several key departments in Wealth Management, Investment Management and select Business functions. The scheme emphasises hands-on experience with private banking clients whilst providing comprehensive support to develop soft and technical skills training and leads to a recognised qualification in private banking. Those enrolled also take part in a ‘Trainee Challenge’, where they collaborate to develop innovative solutions to real-world business challenges, supervised by a business mentor to further enhance their skills and industry knowledge.
"The most rewarding part of the scheme has been the opportunity to meet people, adapt to different teams, and learn new skills and insights."
Max Beverley, Client Lifecycle Trainee, UBP UK
With regional variations, UBP has nurturing young talent as a priority across the Group. Whether it’s through the Graduate Programme, the Young Talent Programme in Hong Kong, the Apprenticeship Scheme in the UK, or the Swiss apprenticeship system, not to mention interns throughout the year, the value of fresh talent and insights is widely recognised and capitalised upon at UBP.
