Baillie Gifford launches modern apprenticeship programme

The firm said the scheme is designed to provide paid employment alongside structured training and learning opportunities to develop a long-term career.

The fund manger announced the initiative as it expressed its wish to work with schools to “help create a skilled workforce for Scotland’s future by providing alternative entry routes into the workplace”.

Most people need a degree to apply for a job at Baillie Gifford, but with many pupils now choosing a different path to gain qualifications and experience, the firm says that by limiting the entry route to just graduates, the company could miss out on attracting new and interesting talent.

Victoria MacGillivray, early careers consultant at Baillie Gifford, said: “Traditionally the business has only recruited graduates as a source of new talent. However, we recognise that a university education isn’t necessarily for everyone and many people are choosing different paths to gain qualifications and experience. We need to think differently so that we don’t miss out on great talent.

“For the apprentices, this offers an alternative way to learn skills and achieve a qualification without attending university – all whilst earning a full-time salary.

“Talent is becoming increasingly difficult to source, especially in some sectors such as technology. We want to stay ahead of the curve to develop these skills, think differently about how to source candidates, and ensure a diverse pipeline of young people for our business.”

The programme supports The Scottish Government’s Youth Employment strategy to prepare young people for the world of work. At the same time, it aims to increase the diversity of the workforce by recruiting people from a wider range of backgrounds.

The apprenticeship scheme will be complementary to Baillie Gifford’s established graduate programme and diversity and inclusion efforts. If the pilot is successful the modern apprenticeship programme may be rolled out across other areas of the business.

The apprenticeship will provide:

• A thorough training programme to ensure apprentices develop the right knowledge, skills and behaviours to carry out specific roles.

• This will include: core skills, a relevant SVQ, industry and role specific training.

• The opportunity to study for a relevant professional qualification whilst earning a salary.

• A permanent contract from the start of employment. Once apprentices have completed each element and passed their assessments, they would simply be another member of the team.

• Four key areas of employment: information systems, mandate compliance, accounting, client services.

 Anyone over the age of 16, with the right to work in the UK can apply.