Doha to Zurich to Dubai - meet Adrika
From GTP to client account manager, and the learnings in-between
Tell us about yourself and your time in UBS Global Wealth Management.
Tell us about yourself and your time in UBS Global Wealth Management.
I began my journey with an internship at UBS, which led to me progressing to the Graduate Talent Program (GTP), where I worked within the Global Wealth Management (GWM), Risk, and Compliance teams. During the program I moved to Zurich to the Chief Investment Office Emerging Markets team. Today I work in GWM Advisory in Dubai and I have enjoyed every step of the journey.
Learning to effectively provide front office support for clients has allowed me to gain insights into market research, growing the business and understanding clients’ needs. I’ve had the opportunity to work with senior managers and build strong relationships with investment and client advisors, allowing me to experience firsthand the people-centric business we are in.
What a journey so far! How have you found moving locations?
Qatar was my home for over a decade, and relocating meant it was the first time I was living away from my family.
Moving between three countries within one year was exciting and scary – and that comes from someone who loves traveling. But I discovered my ability to adapt quickly to new challenges, which was crucial in navigating different roles and locations. And I also learnt an important life skill – how to cook!
That’s impressive. Can you tell us about your first impression of UBS?
The UBS brand is built on more than a century of experience, integrity and commitment to excellence. These characteristics, along with the combination of scale and reputation, make it a powerful place for a graduate to start their career.
I’ve been impressed with how junior talent is nurtured here, and it’s refreshing to see how open and collaborative the environment is, and the valuable opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives and experiences.
The culture also stands out for me – I feel supported and that allows me to really develop my skills whilst also feeling a sense of belonging.
And what does being part of the GTP mean to you?
Not only does the program provide a ready-made network of like-minded colleagues to learn from, but I’m getting exposure to a range of wealth management disciplines across different financial markets. I get a lot of support from the GTP team, my mentors and the teams I work with. All these factors are essential in helping me deepen my understanding of wealth management.
My aim is to further develop my skills by working on projects that directly impact our clients. I want to build strong relationships with mentors and colleagues, learning from their expertise and insights. Together, these approaches will help me grow, personally and professionally, and have a successful career at UBS.
How have your colleagues helped your journey so far?
My journey has been incredibly fulfilling thanks to the support of my colleagues. Their hands-on approach to learning has made a significant difference. They are ready to delegate tasks, allowing me to take the initiative and explore new challenges. This environment encourages me to ask questions and seek guidance, helping me grow and achieve my goals.
During the GTP, I’ve learned that I thrive in collaborative environments where I can connect with others. I’ve realized the importance of being proactive in finding opportunities to learn, whether through networking or hands-on experience.
What has been a meaningful takeaway from your transition from trainee to full-time team member?
Moving into a client-facing role has been an exciting step in my career, allowing me to interact directly with clients and build relationships. One of the most rewarding aspects has been the strong presence of women who guided me through the transition. From my supportive HR manager Fenia, to my experienced line manager, Sarika with her years of expertise and experience – I’ve had the privilege of learning from women leaders in action.
Their mentorship has been incredibly encouraging. As someone young, eager to grow, and open to learning, having that kind of guidance was one of the most valuable parts of this journey.
How has your role evolved since completing the Graduate Talent Program?
Completing the 18-month Graduate Talent Program in March 2025 was a transformative experience. Rotations in Zurich, Doha, and Dubai gave me a broad view of UBS’s global capabilities and operations. Now, seven months into my role as a Client Account Manager in the Dubai Advisory Office, I’m excited by the hands-on learning and growth it offers. Support from my incredible line manager and colleagues has allowed me to learn quickly and explore new opportunities. Being based in Dubai also highlights the strong collaboration across UBS offices in the Middle East, reinforcing our unified global approach to banking.
How has your role evolved since completing the Graduate Talent Program?
Completing the 18-month Graduate Talent Program in March 2025 was a transformative experience. Rotations in Zurich, Doha, and Dubai gave me a broad view of UBS’s global capabilities and operations. Now, seven months into my role as a Client Account Manager in the Dubai Advisory Office, I’m excited by the hands-on learning and growth it offers. Support from incredible managers and colleagues has helped me ramp up quickly and explore new opportunities. Being based in Dubai also highlights the strong collaboration across UBS offices in the Middle East, reinforcing our unified global approach to banking.
Is there any part of GWM you are keen to learn more about and why?
After more than three years at UBS, I’ve come to appreciate there’s so much talent and expertise within the organization that I can learn from and that my time here is just the beginning in wealth management. I’m eager to experience more, in both client-facing and investment market-facing roles, to help me find the best fit for my skills and career at UBS.
Are you interested in joining our team?
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