Project Analyst Profile

Salem's Career as a Project Analyst

“Since graduation I was looking for the best opportunity to add value and gain experience in a professional environment. My objective was to secure a role where I could utilise my skills and knowledge acquired throughout my degree. 

FDM fulfilled my aim of enhancing my knowledge. This was achieved through the academy which enabled me to gain a further four qualifications. These include CISI IOC, PRINCE2 Project Management, ISEB Business Analysis and Programme and Project Support Office. Furthermore I acquired skills in Excel, SQL and Unix (bash/shell scripting); training that otherwise would not have been available to me. FDM then offered the opportunity to secure a role in a range of professional industries from Investment Banking to Retail. Such a lucrative opportunity was appealing as I was able to add value to myself through the additional training and qualifications and the job at the end of it met my ultimate goal of professional work. 

My current role at UBS deals primarily with financials and business strategy. My day will include the analysis of cost and benefits from a programme view. Variance analysis is required to ensure that targets are met and business expectations are fulfilled. I will attend meetings to discuss our current financial state and how we need to adjust for the months ahead. Other meetings will include updates from all the stream leads to get an up-to-date picture of where the department stands in meeting milestones and the discussion of addressing/eliminating risks.

My role has continually grown after successful completion of initial tasks. From noting minutes and compiling slide decks, I have now devised the forecasting tool used by the department. Greater responsibility has helped me identify cost saving opportunities and has enabled me to provide greater financial transparency. I aspire to become a Project Manager whereby strategic decisions are made to increase productivity and enhance the bottom line. 

Within this sector the interaction with professional people from different walks of life is encouraging. People have a wealth of experience from many different companies. It is always exciting to learn different processes of achieving the same goal. 

FDM is a company that provides opportunities and can be differentiated through the training and development opportunities through the Academy. I would recommend FDM to other graduates seeking employment because the end result speaks for itself; a job, qualifications and technical skills acquisition. It would have taken me many years to reach my current position. This experience has given me a head start and will inevitably enhance my career opportunities in the future. FDM provide the solution to the catch 22 situation of employers wanting candidates to apply with relevant experience. The best thing about FDM is their relationships with reputable companies from a range of industries. This guarantees a role within a respectful company within the marketplace. Their training academy adds value to an individual and the experience provides the beginning of your professional career.”