Students studying Level 3 Business Studies at Bridgwater College welcomed Simon Keith, Branch Manager for NatWest Bank in Minehead, to find out more about his career and what it is like to work within the industry.

Simon has worked for NatWest in Minehead for eight years, since beginning his training with HSBC Bank as part of their Trainee Management Scheme. He became Branch Manager for NatWest the age of 23. Before his career in banking Simon studied A Level Business at Bridgwater College.

Simon spoke about working life in banking and how it has changed throughout the years. When he started his career, banking was all about money; targets were based on sales and making as much money as possible. The industry is now much more geared to its customers, and branches are measured on how they deliver customer service.

Simon gave examples of situations he has had to deal with in his role as well as the process of recruiting. He coached the students on what he looks for in new employees, including tips on CV writing and interview skills. Simon also spoke a lot about community work and how pushing yourself to gain more experience in all aspects of life can increase your employability. He also spoke more personally about his own life, how you can overcome anything to be successful, and to always remember to separate your personal and professional life. 

Student Georgia Vowles from Mark, who is studying Level 3 BTEC Business Studies at Bridgwater College said,

“Simon was a really great speaker and we liked the way he presented to us. He spoke to us in a way we could understand as well as being funny and down to earth. We could really relate to him and his life which made the presentation really enjoyable, giving us a great insight into banking”.

If you would like more information about studying Business at Bridgwater College please contact our Information and Guidance team on 01278 441234.