Standard Life Operations Apprentice 2026

Are you finishing school and thinking about what’s next, but not sure where your interests might take you yet? At Standard Life , we’re offering exciting apprenticeship opportunities for people who are curious, motivated, and ready to learn – no previous experience in Financial Services needed. You’ll gain hands‑on experience in our Retirement Solutions and Asset Management operational teams, building practical skills and knowledge that can open doors to a wide range of future careers.

If you’re looking for a supportive place to start your working life and grow your confidence in a professional environment, this could be the perfect first step. What is the purpose of the Asset Management (RS&AM) Chief Operating Office (COO)? In Asset Management, we help people grow their savings and plan for the future by investing across a wide range of assets, supporting goals from retirement to long‑term financial security.

Behind the scenes, our Chief Operating Office (COO) is the engine that keeps everything running smoothly and safely - designing processes, managing systems, and supporting teams so investments are delivered accurately, responsibly, and on time. This engine is made up of several key areas, which you’ll be exposed to during your apprenticeship: Asset Management Operations: Our Collateral Management team ensures financial trades are secure by overseeing the checking, tracking, and control of assets used to mitigate risk, keeping investment processes reliable and well‑governed. COO Business Management: Our Business Management team aligns the COO function by coordinating planning, priorities, and senior decision‑making to keep the business running smoothly.

e. e. Python and SQL); turning data into practical solutions that power the business.

Policy Holder Operations: Our Policyholder Operations team ensures policyholder funds are managed safely and accurately through activities such as unit pricing, fund accounting, performance reporting, and issue management, delivered through strong controls and collaboration. Clients Services: Our Client Services team looks after our customers with care and attention, managing their funds accurately, keeping information clear, and always working to achieve the best outcomes and value for their investments. Compliance: The Investment Compliance team acts as the first line of defence, ensuring investment decisions are responsible, well‑controlled, and compliant with regulations across Retirement Solutions & Asset Management.

What our Apprenticeship offers: Each apprentice will have a home role in one of the five teams outlined above, where you’ll spend the full two years building skills, confidence, and experience in a supportive environment. Alongside this, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in shorter ‘Gigs’ across the COO function and the wider Asset Management team. These experiences are designed to help you explore different areas of the business, meet new people, and broaden your understanding of the industry.

This apprenticeship is a chance to learn by doing, develop skills that will support your future career, and gain a real insight into how a large financial services organisation works. You’ll be supported throughout your journey, encouraged to ask questions, and given opportunities to grow at a pace that’s right for you - making this a great first step into the world of work! e.

BTEC and are looking for a Level 3 AI and Data Foundations Apprenticeship (2 years) with opportunity to progress further. You will be fully funded and supported in your apprenticeship and will have 1 day a week away from work dedicated to your learning.