Jobs in banking/cash handling (QFA exams?)

Posy

Hi,
I might have to leave my job at some stage this year. It is in a retail management role- customer service/cash handling/basic book-keeping etc..

I'm thinking the obvious thing would be to think about bank work or the like- a bank cashier, for example, would be something that's not a million miles away from what I'm doing now- using computers/dealing with the public/working with cash..

I just have two questions, so thought I'd post if anyone has any ideas!
Is thinking about bank work crazy? Is it impossible to get work there, are they laying people off, rather than taking people on?

Is there anything I can do to improve my prospects? I've seen QFA qualifications mentioned online a lot. Or a part time finance course? Would QFA be a must for any bank work? (I have a college master's degree, but it's in English Lit!)

Obviously I've been researching and googling this myself, but if anyone has any input or advice I'd really appreciate it.

smileybee

Hi Posy,

A QFA is pretty much a necessity for any customer facing roles, but if you got a job in a back office role, you probably wont need it. Some banks will pay the cost of the course if you study it while working there, so you might want to look for jobs to see if you need to get your exams first.

As for layoffs, the rumours are always there but it's hard to say for certain. I think AIB will be letting staff go.

Good luck with the job hunt...

Delancey

Banking is downsizing in a big way , AIB are expected to seek 2,000 job losses this year.

Loughgirl

Actually AIB are on a big recruitment drive,they are letting some jobs go but that's middle managers,they are recruiting more staff on the frontline and to deal with loans etc!good luck!