Broad knowledge of economics
'In everything I do, I am guided by my interests at that moment. That’s how I started the double Bachelor's programme in Physics & Astronomy and Mathematics years ago. However, during my Bachelor’s programme I realised that I wanted to be more involved with people. I then opted for the Master’s programmes in Mathematics and Econometrics. I wanted to encompass societal relevance; to have a career that makes a difference to society. On top of that, I wanted to be involved in applied sciences, so that already ruled out specialist mathematics for me. It was also with that thought in mind that I joined the DNB Traineeship. I thought it would be interesting to gain bank-wide knowledge and delve into the subject of economics. This traineeship really allows me to focus on major, socially relevant themes.
Social work culture
When I first started my traineeship at DNB, I noticed that people here are very open. Completely different from what I was used to at university, where you spend a lot of time doing sums by yourself. DNB has a social culture where people are helpful and work together. I started my traineeship in the Expert Centre on Data, Algorithms & Business Models within the Insurance Supervision Division, and, in terms of people, this centre is a true mix of young and old. When I was a student, I was used to hierarchical relationships with such experienced people, and now they are suddenly my colleagues. That took some getting used to at first, but I have since found that the interest and appreciation is mutual. Everyone at DNB is socially committed and everyone has also made a conscious choice not to work for a commercial party. This is something that we all share.
With this traineeship, I want to purposefully step outside my comfort zone.
Supervision of insurers
The Insurance Supervision Division was a place that had not immediately crossed my mind, but I joined the division with an open mind. I worked on a variety of projects there, including the evaluation of the annual supervisory process. Part of this project meant that I had to analyse a lot of data on which I then wrote a project plan on how to implement improvements in the process. This was a long-term project of several months, but I also worked on some smaller projects at the same time. I developed a dashboard for supervisory authorities, for example, but I was also able to pair up with a colleague in a project group of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA). In this context, I particularly appreciated seeing the strong European cooperation.
Outside your comfort zone
In a few weeks, I will start my new placement in the Cash Policy & Strategy Department within the Cash Division. This part of my traineeship focuses on policy and is therefore not of a quantitative nature. That means it’s outside my comfort zone, but that is precisely why I can’t wait to find out how it will suit me. It was a purposeful decision for me to step outside my comfort zone. This traineeship is the best way for me to get to know the different aspects of the work at DNB. That is why I do not plan too much ahead, as I find myself discovering more and more things at DNB that I find interesting. So if I could give future trainees one tip, it would be to stay in the moment and to keep doing what you enjoy at that moment.'
Noah- DNB Trainee
Where can you handle exemptions of financial institutions as a trainee?
Rick- DNB trainee
Where can you supervise electronic money and payment institutions as a trainee?
Ibrahim - From legal intern to trainee
Where can an intern get a broad introduction to the field of legal affairs?
