Chang Han Jien
As a Global Maybank Apprentice, Chang is given the opportunity and flexibility to personalise his rotations in different departments of his choice.
A day in the life
As a Global Maybank Apprentice (GMA), I’m given the opportunity and flexibility to personalise my rotations in different departments of my choice, as an accelerated training requirement in this two-year, on-the-job graduate programme.
Before entering the Group Digital Strategy team, I previously worked in the Business Banking division and Global Banking Risk department. My current responsibilities within Digital Strategy include project management for existing digital partnerships within Maybank, research on the digital landscape, and formulation of strategic digital recommendations that the bank may pursue.
As a GMA, I’m also involved in special projects such as the design of digital challenges and assessment centres. These projects aim to identify potential talents.
Company culture
As a fresh graduate starting out in Maybank, I'm grateful to receive equal parts of guidance and independent learning. I am in awe at the countless learning opportunities offered, both formal and informal, and in the willingness of Maybankers to share and impart knowledge.
The Global Maybank Apprenticeship Programme (GMAP), of which I am a part of, further bolsters my career aspirations through a healthy support system amongst fellow young professionals, should I ever need advice and encouragement.
Overcoming obstacles
Having been accustomed to working in the office, transitioning to fully working from home was a novel idea six months ago. Now, it's my new reality, especially in times of COVID-19.
Although it was challenging at the beginning, I quickly adapted to the new work environment by adjusting the setup for maximum productivity. Working virtually also means that I can manage multiple responsibilities and get involved in numerous projects, without being physically present. This allows me to manage my time better and communicate effectively with all stakeholders.
Facing COVID-19
Since before the Movement Control Order (MCO), Maybank has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of its employees, by administering temperature checks and providing masks and hand sanitisers to all Maybankers.
Since the onset of the MCO, most teams initially operated from home. As infection rates abated, some groups began working from home with limited access to offices.
During the MCO, multiple wellness initiatives were carried out to keep Maybankers connected and to bring people together from all over the globe in an effort to continuously inspire one another and lead a healthy lifestyle.
The new normal
Winston Churchill once said, “Never let a good crisis go to waste”. I try to live up to similar standards by quickly adapting into what we now call the New Normal. Since the MCO, I have been serving my civic duty by spending more time at home. I have been keeping busy with whatever extra time I have by picking up new knowledge relevant to my career in Maybank through the abundant resources online. I have also devoted more time to study for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), a finance-related professional certification.
Culture: ★★★★★ 100%
Work-life balance: ★★★★★ 100%
Travel opportunities: ★★★★ 80%
Professional development: ★★★★★ 100%
Personal growth: ★★★★★ 100%
