Bryce Shaw

Role: Agribusiness Analyst Qualifications:  Bachelor of Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne, Fast facts:   Grew up on a family sheep and beef property in South West Victoria After finishing secondary school in 2002, worked for a year with 'Koolomurt' Pastoral Company in South West Victoria Completed Bachelor of Agricultural Science at The University of Melbourne in 2005 Offered a job at NAB midway through final year of uni (June/July 2005) Joined NAB Agribusiness Graduate Program in January 2006 Spent 5 months at Albury Credit Centre working as an agribusiness credit analyst Currently working as an agribusiness analyst at Geelong Agribusiness Centre in South West Victoria

"I have found working with NAB a fulfilling experience. It's great to be part of a major corporation that encourages and rewards initiative."

Why NAB?

I really liked the idea of being part of an innovative organisation that saw the need to develop a specialised agribusiness unit. To me, that showed how far ahead NAB was compared with its competitors. I also chose NAB because I felt they showed more commitment to their employees, and offered more attractive financial incentives when compared with other major financiers.

What were the first few months like?

The first few months were challenging, but very rewarding. I was in a close-knit group of six graduates, and we formed some great friendships. I now have a great network of people to support me.

Has your degree helped?

The practical and technical knowledge I gained through my agricultural science degree, as well as my background in farming, has given me an excellent base from which build my career in agribusiness.

What other skills have been useful?

Good communication skills are very important in this job. The ability to talk and listen to farmers and fully understand their needs is crucial. You also need to be able to work independently, show initiative and manage your time.

What are some of the things you've been doing?

I've been getting out on the farm and gaining an understanding of many different agricultural operations, from mixed cropping and livestock operations, to vineyards, commercial fishing operations and market gardens.  I have also been selected to join a national project team, and we are currently working on developing new initiatives to ensure the future growth of NAB Agribusiness.

Any projects you've really enjoyed?

Working on large, complex deals, from the initial client interview through to settlement, has been a real eye-opener. It's really satisfying to see how the service we provide contributes to our rural communities.

What are the best bits?

Obviously, being paid to work and travel around Australia isn't bad! But the best thing is being a valued member of a small team, and getting recognition for a job well done. It's also great to have the opportunity to work alongside senior managers with over 20 years' experience and to be asked for my opinion.

What opportunities do you have to further your career?

NAB Agribusiness has a flat and transparent career structure that clearly sets out promotion and salary grades. If you show talent and drive, you'll be promoted very quickly.

Once you've got your foot in the door, various areas within the NAB are easily accessible. Senior leaders and mentors are always willing to sit down with you and help you map out your own career path.

What next?

 I would like to continue to develop my skills and progress through the ranks. Eventually, I might transfer into a different area within NAB Agribusiness, such as treasury, or strategy and marketing. Whatever I do, I will definitely remain connected to agribusiness in some way or another.

Claire O'Callaghan

Role: Agribusiness Analyst Age: 26 Qualifications:  Bachelor of Commerce, Monash University Fast facts:   Grew up on a sheep and cereal cropping farm in Victoria's Wimmera District Moved to Bendigo at the age of nine, where my parents started their own agricultural consulting business Moved to Melbourne to study Commerce at Monash University Graduated in 2004 with majors in marketing and management Took a year off to travel around Europe Joined NAB's Agribusiness Graduate Program in 2006 Currently working out in the field as an agribusiness analyst

"I find my role as an agribusiness graduate challenging and rewarding and look forward to the opportunities that will become available to me in the future."

Why NAB?

I knew there would be great career opportunities in the agricultural industry and was keen to get involved. NAB's reputation as the leader in agribusiness banking was the key reason I applied for a graduate role - quite simply, I wanted to work for the best in the industry.

What were your first few months like?

My initial training required me to move to Albury for three months to work in NAB's credit centre. Here I was trained with six other graduates. This involved compliance training and working as part of the credit centre team to prepare and complete credit applications for agribusiness bankers throughout Australia. 

What are you doing now?

I have now commenced field training, which is the second half of the graduate training program.  All graduates are sent out to a banking centre for the remaining three months of the program.  Here we learn the role of an agribusiness analyst by shadowing an agribusiness manager, who also acts as a mentor.  I've been getting my head around the bank's different programs, as well as helping service existing customers and providing funding for new customers.  I will also be travelling with my manager out to visit clients on their farms. 

What are the best bits?

One of the best things about this program is that your training involves certified courses that are recognised throughout the finance industry.  It also gives you the opportunity to network with other graduates and form lasting friendships.
One of the real drawcards of NAB's agribusiness unit is that you get to live and work all over Australia.  The other graduates I trained with in Albury are now working all over Australia.