Peter Holmes, Wells Fargo Intern, London U.K
Discussing his post-graduate Commercial Distribution Finance (CDF) internship rotation, Peter Holmes is adjusting to working from home in North Wales, an ocean view replacing his usual half-hour daily walk to the London office.
Joining Wells Fargo began with an application early during the final year of university. “I was definitely proactive, getting applications out before Christmas.” After connecting with a team member in Ireland, a dialogue began to ensure the expectations of the role were clear. “With Wells Fargo, I did notice a difference with the recruitment process… it was a lot warmer,” involving more phone calls than standard, short emails. Peter met with the heads of all three rotation areas: sales, account management, and risk, before a final meeting with the Head of European Sales and accepting an offer.
Holding a degree in International Business Management, Peter is well-accustomed to applying an international focus to his work. Keeping a routine helped most, as he successfully adjusted from university to a corporate setting. “It was a nice transition … the biggest thing was probably being in a different country.” He brings communications experience with a fund management company in Luxembourg, a marketing internship at a research institute in Vienna, and a study abroad in Toulouse. “Ever since then, I’ve really been kick-started on looking for international ventures.”
Peter currently works in a department with 200+ people in EMEA, amongst about 70 others on the floor daily. The CDF rotation offers three distinct roles, each providing a unique focus and the ability to learn from, and contribute to, various parts of the organization. His days include working with sales pipelines and deal proposals, resolving invoice issues, and initiating calls to work through customer needs and evaluate potential strategies, in industries from motorsports to farm equipment.
“I was a little surprised with the amount of responsibilities and encouragement I was given… I had really encouraging teammates.” One memorable win for Peter, originally from Scotland, was working end-to-end on an account, and making the call to inform the Scottish clients that they had successfully obtained a new credit facility.
Peter advises prospective interns to “be proactive in applying for jobs; put yourself out there.” If your interest expands in a certain area, Wells Fargo offers opportunities to explore those. He references the quarterly EMEA Early Talent Program events, which offer training, development, and networking with other graduate interns and senior leaders in the region, “If you find yourself more interested in another topic, there is a possibility to divert to a different path.”
He, however, is really enjoying the work he’s completed so far in CDF, with growing responsibilities as he continues to conquer new challenges. “I'm keen to stay within CDF; I’ve really enjoyed being part of the team.”
Outside of work, Peter grew up swimming, turning into a huge football fan. “I know far too much about soccer, including the MLS teams in America, but you can stick any sport in front of me and I'm guaranteed to watch it.”