When it comes to their future, German trainees trust the Savings Banks. In 2014, the Savings Banks Finance Group employed around
22,500 vocational trainees – and some institutions take an unusual approach. Sparkasse Krefeld, for example, has interesting
alternatives in store for those who decide to cut short their university studies: it is also a training centre for chefs.
24-year old Marco Salven chose his employer “because it’s the Savings Bank”. But he is not at all interested in finance. Marco
likes to cook. And that’s what he does, almost every day. Sparkasse Krefeld, Marco’s employer, is one of only a few institutions
in Germany that offer training in their own kitchen. What is the best thing about Marco’s training? “It’s extremely diversified,
from à-la-carte to industrial catering. I learn much more here than I would in a regular restaurant that caters only to a specific
target group.”
Marco’s highlight so far: a special year-end event. “What we created with the food on that occasion – it was almost an art form. I
had to handle the products very carefully and I really learnt a lot. So, if someone wants to be a chef, I can highly recommend
Sparkasse Krefeld. I’m very glad to get my training here, and have never regretted my choice of employer.”
Oliver Vanselow started to study chemical science at the University of Cologne, but quickly realised that chemistry wasn’t for
him. “There was too much theory for me, I wanted to get out and actually do things. That’s why I quit my studies after one year.”
Instead, Oliver decided to start a vocational training to become a bank officer at Sparkasse Krefeld. Wasn’t that quite an unusual
change? “I asked myself: What am I really good at? From my part-time jobs as a student I knew that I was good at customer service.
A bank training seemed like a good choice.”
While Oliver enjoys working with numbers and figures, what he appreciates most is engaging with customers. “I like the challenge
of responding to the individual needs of each customer, and finding the best possible solution together.” He successfully
completed the programme in January – and he is now full of praise for his employer. “It’s amazing what the Savings Bank has to
offer, for example orientation days and a branch run entirely by trainees. And it takes really good care of its trainees.” That’s
what sets Saving Banks apart from other banks. The shortage of skilled staff is one of the major challenges for our country. For
Savings Banks, offering young people a good training and long-term career perspectives is part of the course. Vocational trainees
at Sparkasse Krefeld.
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