Profiles

Abdulaziz

Global Markets
Graduate Trainee

Read Abdulaziz' story

Why did you choose to join HSBC?

"I didn't want to work in banking. But when I was at university, I did a research project on Islamic Finance. The professor I worked with was fascinating and incredibly inspiring. The Amanah Programme at HSBC offered me a global platform and the broadest possible opportunities. They convinced me - and they've delivered on all their promises. Everyone on my team is driven, and as passionate about what they do as I am."

What's your programme like?

"Dubai is home to HSBC's Amanah Practice. The Analyst Programme lasts about two years and people usually work in Dubai and then have two rotations in Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, UAE or one of our other locations. I'm in my first year of the programme and my boss has suggested I gain some experience in retail by going to one of our other offices. But so far there's been so much to keep me busy that I've stayed here in Dubai. Of course, eventually I will join one of the other offices. But for now, I'm happy and challenged right here."

What's it like to work at HSBC?

"At HSBC, I always feel like I have more to do. A deal that we complete in 2007 won't be executable in 2012. Regulations change quickly. Now there are loan limits and I'm part of the discussions about how this will affect our business. HSBC has been present in the Middle East for a long time so we've been able to build more relationships and create a stronger network. For me, our position in the market all adds up to personal growth."

How does HSBC's global focus affect you?

"I think of myself as an emerging person. Working in a place like Dubai means I can develop faster and learn more than I would in an established market. I visited here in 2006 and the difference between then and now is phenomenal. The sky line is a physical manifestation of what emerging really means."

What's a typical working day like?

"I don't have a typical working day. Sometimes, the hours I work are long, but my team is aware of that. I've earned the respect of the people I work with, and that makes all the difference. Some of my colleagues here started the market and the connections we're part of are incredible."

Tell us more about your personal development.

"The people I work with are the best source of personal development. When I have a question, I can always go to a more experienced colleague. Learning is passed on all the time and it really accelerates our progress. It takes me less time to learn something new than it took the person who explained it to me."

What are your plans for the future?

"I'm not sure what my plans for the future are. I like what I'm doing now and feel completely unconstrained. This is the best training ground there is and what I'm doing now is completely different than what I did three months ago. I'm not in it for money or for promotion, but because what I do is interesting and I feel valued."

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