Financial Institution Coverage - Trainee

1.Department Description and Responsibilities

The Investment Banking Division of Société Générale Securities Japan is responsible for originating, coordinating, and developing financing and investment banking opportunities with leading Japanese clients, particularly financial institutions. The division leverages Société Générale's global platform and expertise across Global Markets, Debt Capital Markets, Structured Finance, Asset Managements, and M&A advisory services.

The team operates under a dual reporting structure across both Société Générale Securities Japan and Société Générale Bank, working closely with senior management to deliver integrated solutions to clients.

Primary Objectives of the Team:

• Develop and maintain senior-level relationships with selected clients to promote the full range of Société Générale's capabilities.
• Define and execute client business strategies, including transaction origination, resource allocation, credit risk management, and profitability assessment.
• Provide comprehensive client coverage and coordinate internal stakeholders to ensure the highest level of service.
• Manage client-related matters, including regulatory, compliance, and KYC requirements.

2.Job Description and Main Responsibilities / Mission

As a FIG (Financial Institutions Group) Trainee, you will support Relationship Managers and Senior Bankers in covering some of Japan’s leading financial institutions, working directly with and reporting to the Head of FIG Japan. In addition to supporting the FIG team, you will have the opportunity to work closely with the DCM (Debt Capital Markets) team within the Investment Banking Division and collaborate with professionals across the MARK (Global Markets Division).

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain broad exposure to investment banking, debt capital markets, financial institutions coverage, and client relationship management within a leading international financial institution. Through close interaction with multiple business lines and global teams, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of corporate finance, capital markets, and the strategic advisory services provided to major Japanese financial institutions.

Key Responsibilities include:

•  Assist in the preparation of client materials (including Market updates, Industry and peer analyses, Secondary market performance analyses, Primary issuance pricing indications, Pitch books and presentation materials, Responses to client inquiries and requests)
• Conduct research and data analysis to support business development and transaction execution.
• Coordinate with internal teams in Japan and overseas to ensure smooth communication and efficient execution of business initiatives.
• Support bankers in client coverage activities, meeting preparation, and project management.
   

Qualifications / Certifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field.
• JSDA Class-1 Sales Representative qualification is preferred, or willingness to obtain the certification upon joining.

Technical Skills:

• Native-level Japanese and business-level English proficiency (written and spoken).
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Familiarity with Bloomberg and financial databases is an advantage.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong interest in investment banking and financial institutions.
• Highly motivated to contribute to the growth of Société Générale's business in Japan.
• Demonstrates integrity and adherence to regulatory and compliance standards.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills in a multicultural environment.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and eager to learn.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a small, collaborative team.

• Client-focused mindset with a strong sense of responsibility and professionalism.

•  Gain hands-on experience in investment banking and financial institutions coverage.
• Work closely with senior bankers and industry professionals.
• Develop financial analysis, communication, and client management skills.
• Exposure to cross-border transactions and collaboration with global teams.
• Build a strong foundation for a career in investment banking, capital markets, and financial services.

This trainee position is an excellent opportunity for students and recent graduates seeking to develop a career within a leading global financial institution and gain direct exposure to Japan's financial sector.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION (DE&I):

Our mission: Recruit, develop, advance, and retain a diverse workforce that is united in our efforts to enhance our competitive position and deliver innovative solutions to our clients.

Our vision: 
•     Engaged workforce that is demographically diverse in a way that reflects the communities in which we operate
•     Inclusive culture and workplace that recognizes employees' unique needs and utilizes their diverse talents 
•     Engage our community and marketplace, and position the organization to meet the needs of all its clients

Check out our DE&I initiatives: https://www.societegenerale.asia/en/careers/diversity-equity-inclusion-dei/

Societe Generale is committed to offering an inclusive recruitment experience to all candidates.  If you require any reasonable accommodations of assistance during the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to let our HR staff know.

Societe Generale is committed to providing a respectful, safe, and harassment-free recruitment process for all candidates. If you experience or witness any inappropriate behavior, including any form of harassment, during the recruitment process, please contact at recruitment.sg-tokyo@sgcib.com. All concerns will be handled confidentially and with appropriate care. Candidates will not be disadvantaged for raising concerns in good faith.