Rory-Thomas Harrison

The Settlements Department is made up of 5 specialised teams who work together to ensure that all investment transactions are fully completed within agreed timeframes. My apprenticeship includes secondments in each of the five teams. So far, I’ve completed time in the Equity & Bonds Team and the Derivatives Team. Right now, I’m working in the Cash and FX Team, where I’ve been involved in the winding down of the current Sterling Cash Management Process and learning about what the future process may look like.

As I go through each of these rotations, I’m learning a lot about how each team functions as well as how to successfully execute key processes. In addition, I’ve had the chance to complete various training courses with the rest of the Modern Apprentices in my year group. The courses have covered different aspects of the business and given me a broader understanding of the financial services industry and where Baillie Gifford fits within it all.

For me, one of the best things about the apprenticeship is the chance to meet so many people across the firm. I recently attended an Operations away day at Carlowrie Castle, which was a great opportunity to connect with all sorts of people across the whole business and learn about some of the key things happening in the year ahead. There are also lots of different employee networks and clubs where you can socialise, learn and meet people. I’m involved in the Graduate & Modern Apprenticeship Network, as well as my department’s Stats Group, and Haymarket Group which is helping to plan the move to our new Edinburgh office. There’s even a BG 5-a-side football team and a range of other social groups unrelated to work.

Baillie Gifford is a company that feels a lot like a community. From the interview and application process, through to the different secondments I’ve done, everyone has been supportive and friendly. There are just so many opportunities for you to develop, as a person and within the business – it’s a place where learning and growing is encouraged throughout. I believe this is a great place to begin your career. I genuinely feel privileged to be a part of it.