Industry Guide

-1.2% YoY

Banking & Finance Careers for Young People

Banking and finance helps people, businesses and communities manage money, risk, payments, savings, investments and financial decisions. Roles can be analytical, customer-facing, digital, advisory, operational or compliance-focused.

Banking is an ideal industry for organised, trustworthy, and analytical individuals who enjoy working with numbers and people. Those who succeed in banking are detail-oriented, comfortable with responsibility, and quick to learn new systems or regulations. If you’re a strong communicator, enjoy solving problems, and take pride in helping others manage their finances, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. The sector values integrity, accuracy, and the ability to adapt to new technology, making it a great fit for those who like a dynamic, customer-focused environment.

Analytical Thinkers: Enjoy working with numbers, data, or solving financial puzzles? This industry will challenge and reward you.
Trustworthy Communicators: People rely on you to handle sensitive information with care and explain complex ideas clearly.
Detail-Oriented Workers: Accuracy matters—small mistakes can have big consequences in finance.
Tech-Savvy Innovators: The rise of digital banking and fintech means there’s a growing need for digital and tech skills.

Open Budi

Salary range

£35,000 - £65,000

Role types

3 to explore

Trade association

UK Finance →

Industry overview

The banking and finance industry is the backbone of the economy, helping people and businesses manage money, invest, and plan for the future. It’s not just about numbers, this sector is full of opportunities for young people who are analytical, trustworthy, and ready to learn. Whether you see yourself in customer service, data analysis, fintech, or investment, there’s a path for every skill set.

Strengths that thrive in Banking & Finance

Clear ThinkerCurious ExplorerCareful PlannerEager LearnerFinisherTeam PlayerLeaderBrave

Bonus strengths

Extra strengths that give you an edge in Banking & Finance.

Self-Controller

Who works in this industry

Women43%

Men57%

6.9pp from a 50/50 balanceNear parity

Growth and hiring

-1.2% vacancies year on year34k recent vacancies

Vacancies appear to be lower year on year (around -1.2%). That is roughly 0k fewer vacancies than the comparison period. The latest vacancy estimate is still about 34k. A dip does not mean there are no jobs — it usually means being more targeted about applications, training and local opportunities.

Opportunities & challenges

Opportunities

Opportunities include digital banking
fintech
customer support
data
finance administration
sustainable finance
compliance and local business banking. Entry-level assistant
apprentice and analyst routes can build confidence.

Challenges to navigate

Things to be aware of: there are rules to follow
accuracy matters
and the sector can be affected by the wider economy. It can suit people who like structure and responsibility.

Traits employers value

OrganisationEthical AwarenessCommunicationAttention to DetailHelpful skills include spotting patterns and solving problemssupporting clients clearlyunderstanding rules and standards and solving problems. You do not need to be perfect at all of them straight away — these are strengths you can build through projectsvolunteeringpart-time workcoursesapprenticeships or simply practising.

What the work feels like

🏢 Organising things or managing tasks and schedules🧠 Working with technology or data

How to get started

Not sure where to begin? Try our career discovery to find finance roles that fit you, or browse our job board for entry-level banking and finance jobs in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk. Many employers offer apprenticeships and on-the-job training—bring your curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Interview tips

Prepare an example of when you handled money
data
deadlines or responsibility carefully. Show that you can be accurate
trustworthy and clear with people. You do not need to sound like an expert
but it helps to understand the organisation’s customers and what the role supports. Mention attention to detail
problem-solving and ethical judgement.

Role types in Banking & Finance

The Analyst The Organiser The Leader

Explore all role types →

Banking & finance industry: key insights

Growth Potential: The sector is evolving fast, with digital banking, fintech, and sustainable finance creating new roles and career paths. There’s strong demand for financial advisors, analysts, compliance officers, and tech specialists.
Opportunities in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk (E/H/S): These regions have a wide range of banks, credit unions, investment firms, and fintech startups. Young people are needed for apprenticeships, entry-level banking jobs, and digital finance roles.
Earning Potential: Entry-level banking and finance roles typically start at £22,000–£28,000, with experienced professionals earning £35,000–£70,000+ in specialist or leadership positions.

Explore more about banking & finance

Dig deeper into the banking and finance industry with our dedicated pages:

Emerging Trends: Learn about fintech, digital banking, and sustainable finance.
Skills Needed: Find out which analytical and digital skills are in demand.
Roles & Career Paths: Explore jobs from customer service to investment analysis.
Interview Prep: Get advice tailored to banking and finance job interviews.
Expert Insights: Hear from industry leaders and young professionals.
Tools & Resources: Access guides and links to help you get started.

Source: https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/employmentandemployeetypes/datasets/employmentbyindustryemp13 (Jul–Sep 2025)