Starting as a Junior Network Architect at ABN AMRO
Degree in hand? Time for the next step: your first real job! You may have heard of our traineeship, but what’s it really like? What does a typical workday involve, and what support will you receive? Nevin Morcy, now a Junior Network Architect at ABN AMRO, shares her story and offers a glimpse into her world. 🔍
Dive deeper into the technical side
Nevin shares: “During my Cyber Security studies, I already knew I wanted to dive deeper into the technical side. When recruiter Jorn reached out to me via LinkedIn, it felt right straight away. The conversation with him and later with account manager Thomas gave me the confidence that they weren’t just looking for a job for me, but genuinely wanted to find the right fit. That personal approach reassured me and gave me the confidence to step into a role where I could truly make an impact.” Nevin found that role at ABN AMRO.
A day at ABN AMRO
Nevin works in the Private Infrastructure Platform (PIP) department, where the team is responsible for the core of ABN AMRO’s IT environment. “The department manages critical IT infrastructure, such as networks, data centres, mainframes, and private cloud systems. Stability, security, and performance are paramount here, as ABN AMRO processes millions of transactions and petabytes of data every day. It’s a high-tech environment that constantly challenges you.”
Within PIP, Nevin is part of two teams: the Network End User (NEU) team and the Network Design Innovation (NDI) team. “In the NEU team, we assist end users with network connectivity and troubleshoot network issues. The NDI team, on the other hand, has a forward-looking focus, working on designing and innovating network structures. While I currently handle tasks mainly within the NEU team, I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute more to the strategic work of the NDI team in the future.”
Nevin works mostly from home but also goes to the office regularly. “Mondays and Wednesdays are my set office days, and once a month we have a larger team day where the whole team comes together. This balance is perfect: I get the calm and flexibility of working from home, but also the energy and connection of being with colleagues at the office. It feels very liberating – I can work wherever I feel at my best.”
Her current tasks
Nevin’s work with the NEU team is both diverse and challenging. “I’m constantly learning while working on various assignments. One of my first projects was designing a network layout for the applications my team uses, using Microsoft Visio. I’m also working on an NSF (Network Security Framework) intake, where we collaborate with the CISO Cyber Defence Team to assess the security of an application.”
Another project involved analysing the required bandwidth for offices across the Netherlands due to the installation of new cameras. “I delved into Excel spreadsheets and performed calculations to determine whether the current bandwidth was sufficient or if an upgrade was necessary. It was technically demanding and gave me valuable insights into ABN AMRO’s infrastructure.”
Team meetings
The tasks in Nevin’s team are organised using a Kanban board. “Every Monday and Wednesday, we have brief stand-ups to discuss who is working on what and to prioritise tasks. On Tuesdays, we hold a longer Kanban meeting to review progress and address any bottlenecks. It’s a great way to work because it gives you constant clarity and allows you to adapt quickly if something gets stuck.”
“The same applies to training. As a student, you’re used to receiving an email with your subjects for the next term. In a company, it’s a bit different. Here, you need to actively seek knowledge from others. You’re responsible for arranging specific training and for asking for feedback. Of course, we talent managers are here to support you. You can ask us anything, and we’ll share our tips. But ultimately, you need to take the initiative.”
In this way of working, assertiveness is key. “You need to have the confidence to ask questions and highlight where you need support, as there’s so much to learn. At the same time, you also need to demonstrate what you’re already capable of. By finding that balance, you not only gain support but also show that you’re proactive and genuinely eager to contribute to the team. That mindset helps you quickly find your place.”
Growing with Cisco Certifications 🎓
Nevin has ambitious plans for her technical development. “I’m currently working towards my Cisco CCNA certification. It’s an important step to make a greater impact within my team. In the long term, I also plan to pursue other Cisco courses, such as CCNP Enterprise and Cisco DNA Spaces, to become a true specialist in network technology.”
Guidance
At Solid Professionals and ABN AMRO, there is a strong focus on personal and professional support. Nevin is guided by both Roxanne, her talent manager at Solid Professionals, and Tineke, her People Process Manager at ABN AMRO. “With Roxanne, I can truly be myself. It’s a safe space where I can openly share my challenges without fear of judgment. This helps me reflect critically on myself and take concrete steps in my development. She offers practical tips and also helps me expand my network within ABN AMRO. Tineke focuses more on the operational side of my work, ensuring I integrate well into the team. Together, they help me grow both professionally and personally.”
Nevin: “It’s hard work, but also a lot of fun. You not only get the opportunity to grow but also to make an impact in a large company.”
In control during your job interview
Nevin learned how to stay in control during job interviews – a skill she gained from Solid Professionals. “Jorn advised me not to view the interview as a one-sided process. Ask your own questions: What’s expected of me? What does a typical workday look like? Why is this team the right fit for me? It was reassuring to know that I could also evaluate whether the role truly suited me.”
Challenges and Highlights
Sounds like something for you?
Ready for a challenge in IT? As a young professional, you’ll have the opportunity to work on complex IT infrastructures, like those at ABN AMRO, where you’ll contribute to essential processes every day. You’ll be supported by experienced experts, gain access to certification programmes such as Cisco CCNA, and develop both your technical and personal skills.
