60 Seconds with Ryan
We welcome Ryan, our new Finance Assistant at BE-ST. We caught up with him to chat about his inspiring career so far.
What's your career been like up to this point?
My career so far has mainly been in IT, across both software testing and software development. I spent nine years with NatWest/RBS, with most of that time working on the Strategic Account Opening programme (SAO). The programme was created to replace the bank's older accounting-opening system with a more modern and adaptable platform. I worked across products including Current Accounts, Branch and Loans, spending around seven and a half years in software testing before moving into software development for a further year and a half. I then decided it was time for a career change and a new challenge.
What's your biggest professional achievement?
Probably helping to get the Strategic Account Opening platform up and running and playing a part in taking its first products live. I was involved in delivering the minimum viable products for Current Accounts and Loans, helping move them from the bank's legacy system onto the new platform. Knowing that the work we did went on to affect how millions of NatWest and RBS customers can open and manage their accounts is something I'm really proud of.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
I used to be someone who generally wouldn't try something unless I already knew how to do it, or at least thought I'd be good at it. One of the best pieces of advice I've received was that you don't have to be good at everything to enjoy doing it. It changed my outlook quite a bit. I'm now much more willing to give things a go, regardless of whether I think I'll be brilliant at them or not.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Outside of work, I do boxing and kickboxing and try to fit in a game of 5s or 7s football each week when the schedule allows. I'm also the treasurer of local environmental charity Grow Uddingston. I'm a big Scotland fan too, I enjoy going to games at Hampden as well as travelling abroad to support the team when I can. I also spend plenty of time out walking with my 14-year-old bichon Alfie, particularly along the Clyde Walkway and around Bothwell Castle.
What's your life motto?
"Go for it"
For me, it's about giving things a try and seeing how you get on. You don't need to be the best at everything, and sometimes the things you're unsure about trying end up being the things you enjoy the most.