Meet Lanre Adeyemi

Name: Lanre Adeyemi

Internship Year: 2022, right after I completed my master's programme at the University of Salford.

What attracted you to the internship?

I sought an opportunity to work in a formal organisation setting. Knowing I needed UK job experience, I found that internships offered an ideal pathway to achieve this.

What surprised you most about the internship at Close Brothers?

What surprised me most was the level of support and mentorship provided during the internship that were genuinely invested in my growth and development.

What was the highlight of the internship for you?

The highlight of the internship for me was the chance to work on a significant project that had a real impact on both myself and the organisation. Additionally, the opportunity to network with professionals in the invoice finance sector and learn from their experiences was invaluable and continues to benefit me to this day.

What skills did the internship help you to develop?

The internship significantly enhanced my knowledge in financial analysis, risk identification and management, communication, and problem-solving skills. These competencies are crucial for invoice finance, and I had the opportunity to develop and apply them during my internship.

What do you enjoy the most about working in Close Brothers?

The supportive culture at Close Brothers is one of the main reasons I'm still with the organisation today. Joining as an intern with a master’s degree came with its own challenges, but the positive work environment has been a key factor in my decision to stay and work my way to the top.

How has the internship helped you to improve your skills?

As mentioned earlier, the internship has had a positive impact on me. It has improved my analytical and problem-solving skills, boosted my self-confidence, and fostered self-reliance with minimal supervision while working.

What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the internship at Close Brothers/working at Close Brothers?

My experience at Close Brothers has been incredibly rewarding. The supportive culture, opportunities for growth, and dedication to employee development have made it a great place to work.

What happened after you completed the internship?

It couldn’t have been better. I was initially offered a six-month fixed contract, and before I knew it, it turned into a permanent position. Here we are, and I'm still happily counting my time with Close Brothers.

You completed the internship and are now a permanent employee at Close Brothers – please can you tell us about the area of the business you now work in and your role?

I completed my internship in Invoice Finance and was subsequently offered a role in the same area of the business. Currently, I am a Reconciliation Analyst, dealing with Invoice Discounting Reconciliations for the Northern Region of the United Kingdom.

What did it mean to you to secure employment at Close Brothers?

Huge! I have never regretted working at Close Brothers, and I can summarise it to be a privilege working with one of the best Invoice Finance organisations in the United Kingdom.

How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?

There is this mentality of oneness in everyone at Close Brothers, where everyone is willing to be part of you each day. When you need help or support on anything, not just one or two colleagues will be available to help you out.

What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

Supportive.

What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

Knowing that you are part of a strong organisation instils a sense of pride and confidence when you share where you work. It’s a place where your growth and development are assured, as I’ve had opportunities to participate in both internal and external mentoring programs through the company.

What are you now aspiring to be?

I have already started on a journey within Close Brothers, and I am confident it will reach the destination I envision. With a background in Information Technology and Innovation Management from my master's programme, I am honing my skills in Business Analysis and Change Management. I've recently completed an internal mentoring programme in Business Analysis and am currently engaged in another external one, focusing on the same areas through Moving Ahead. I hope to find opportunities like an apprenticeship within the company to gain hands-on experience and continue my journey. My aspiration is to become a Business Analyst, and I am committed to achieving this goal within Close Brothers.

Anything further you would like to say on the internship?

I just want to say thank you for providing this valuable opportunity. Your support empowers black students to shape their future and thrive in competitive environments.