Interesting work, real ownership and a great community – two FFPs on their traineeship and why you should apply

Waldemar Sorjonen – FFP trainee in Analytics & AI Solutions

I’m a master’s student at Aalto University, majoring in Mathematics and Operations Research. Alongside my major, I’ve studied Data Science and Financial Risk Management, both of which have proved useful in my role in the Analytics & AI Solutions team during my Future Finance Professional (FFP) traineeship. I joined the FFP programme in February, which means it’s been over half a year already. 

A mix of data engineering, software engineering, and data science

In Analytics & AI Solutions, which is part of Group Finance, we focus on streamlining data processes related to valuation and balance sheet management. My role is a mix of data engineering, software engineering, and data science. In my daily work I mainly use Python, SQL and Git to build tools and infrastructure that make data workflows automated, consistent, and reliable.

In my daily work I have developed practical, data-oriented skills, while attending the FFP Summer Academy sessions has helped me to better understand how a bank operates, as the Academy lectures bring insight into different areas of banking and the broader financial industry.

Great learning opportunities, amazing people and good fun

What I appreciate most about the FFP programme are the learning opportunities. My role has given me a a close-up view of the coordination required to produce reliable data and reporting in a large bank. 

What’s really amazing about the internship is the people. Being surrounded by friendly, smart and ambitious people makes it much easier to learn, contribute, and enjoy day-to-day work. I have also been positively surprised by the many opportunities to get to know colleagues beyond our everyday tasks. The people of Group Finance often organise fun after-work gatherings, sporting events and coffee corners.

On top of that, there are the several FFP events arranged for us where we've tackled escape rooms, navigated laser obstacle courses, and enjoyed evenings with saunas and hot tubs – and just had a great time. I’m really looking forward to the last event. It has been a fun and rewarding summer. Interesting work, continuous learning and amazing colleagues. 

Kaapo Schroderus – FFP trainee in Traded Financial Instruments Development

I’m Kaapo, I completed a Master’s degree in Economics and Business Administration with a major in Business Analytics from University of Oulu. I’m working as FFP trainee in the Traded Financial Instruments Development team which is part of Group Finance and Financial Reporting & Control. 

Wide range of expertise and international atmosphere

In my team, we operate at the intersection of trading, middle office, risk, finance and technology. Our team brings together professionals with a wide range of expertise, from data and application development to financial products expertise and stakeholder coordination. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that Nordea's trading data is flowing seamlessly from trading systems to the analysts, traders, and controllers, managing risk, finance and regulatory requirements – all while securing data quality and continuously improving processes and automation. My team consists of people from Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Poland, which makes the atmosphere highly international.

Tasks modified to your experience and interest 

My tasks vary significantly from day to day. My most common tasks include Bloomberg administration tasks and management of trading books, and supporting related stakeholders. 

In our team, interns’ tasks can be modified based on your experience and interests, which is a great opportunity to develop skills in areas that interest you. I have joined a reporting-related project where I develop PowerApps solution for stakeholders’ needs. Also, I have worked on several data quality issues related to our Trading data warehouse using SQL. Overall, I have been appointed real ownership of tasks and projects which has been challenging, but very rewarding. 

Great networking opportunities

In just a few months, I’ve had the opportunity to work and spend time with people from many different functions and teams across Nordea. FFP Fun Managers have also done a great job in getting all FFPs together once a month. Every event has had different activities followed by relaxing and hanging out with the FFP gang.

Be brave, express your interest and apply

One of the benefits of working in an organisation as large as Nordea is the sheer variety of opportunities. For potential applicants, my advice is, don't hesitate to apply, even for teams that might sound complex or out of reach. Be brave and express your interest in finance. If you’re interested in challenging yourself and want to learn more about markets and finance, I highly recommend applying to the FFP programme. 

Psst! You can apply to our Future Finance Professional programme 2027 from 7–27 Sept. 2026. 

Meanwhile, check out some of the previous blogs by our FFPs here, and watch this space for more blogs and videos with FFP trainees sharing insights and tips. Find more information on this Future Finance Professional site.