Why culture brought Renata back to Deutsche Bank

Contracting offers many finance professionals the freedom to work for different organisations across a range of specialist projects, gaining new experiences. Contracting at Deutsche Bank offers something slightly different - the potential to work on global projects, build long-term global networks and a flexible work environment, within an inclusive culture. For Renata that culture was all important.

Renata’s journey from contractor to employee

For many, contracting is a strategic way to enter or re-enter the financial sector. Interestingly though, and according to the 2024 Contractor Census, over 75% of UK contractors now prefer longer engagements of six months or more.

Renata’s experience spans several top banking institutions, but it was her return to Deutsche Bank into a contract role in 2023 that led to a lasting opportunity. “The culture stood out to me the first time I worked here,” Renata says, reflecting on her decision to return to the bank. Her experience as a contractor was so positive that when it came time for her next role, a permanent opportunity at Deutsche Bank was her clear choice.

While there are no guarantees for contractors applying for permanent positions, clearly the experience and networks gained during her contracting roles put Renata in a strong position.  “My team were very supportive of my application and provided valuable guidance to me through the process.”

There were new systems and processes to learn, however, Renata credits her team and manager for easing her transition. “It was great that management supported me throughout the journey. This made a significant difference in the transition.”

The rewards of becoming permanent

Renata says becoming permanent has allowed her to take a longer-term view. “I’ve been more immersed in Deutsche Bank’s business and long-term planning. The role enables me to put new ideas towards sustainable strategic goals.”

The transition also changed how Renata interacted with the wider team. As a permanent employee, she became more involved in shaping the team's direction, rather than focusing solely on specific tasks.

Hybrid working at Deutsche Bank

Deutsche Bank continues to offer hybrid working . UK employees and contractors (in the eligible parts of the business) follow a flexible structure of a minimum of three days in the office and two days from home, which Renata says supports her well-being. “Hybrid working improves my work-life balance, family, and health. It’s definitely one of the reasons I’d recommend Deutsche Bank as a great place to work.”

Deutsche Bank’s flexible approach helps teams maintain a strong work-life balance and stay connected across locations. Deutsche Bank data shows that 95% of employees are in scope for hybrid working, and 88% of employees report that it is positively impacting how they do their jobs.

By offering structure with flexibility, the bank supports individual wellbeing and long-term business outcomes, reflecting how today’s finance professionals want to work. This sentiment reflects a wider trend. More professionals, particularly those returning after career breaks, are prioritising hybrid roles for the long-term flexibility they offer.

Building inclusion every day

Deutsche Bank employs more than 7,000 people in the UK.  For six consecutive years, The Times has ranked it one of the Top 50 Employers for gender equality. In 2024, the bank was awarded a Gold Award from Stonewall and named one of their Top 100 Employers 2024 for its work supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion.

For Renata, returning to Deutsche Bank was about more than just a role. “I came back because I felt like I belonged here,” she says. “There’s mutual respect and genuine inclusion.” It was the company’s culture, an environment where she felt she could thrive, that cemented her decision to stay longer term. 

Creating space to thrive inside the new Deutsche Bank headquarters

Deutsche Bank has recently opened a new UK headquarters at 21 Moorfields, a purpose-built development near Moorgate, London. The site brings together employees from multiple locations, consolidating operations and reinforcing the bank’s UK presence.
The building has sustainability and collaboration in mind, including flexible workspaces, tech-enabled meeting rooms, and dedicated areas for hybrid and remote working teams. 

Advice for contractors

For contractors considering a longer-term move, Renata’s advice is simple: “Deutsche Bank is a diverse place to build a career. There’s space to grow and contribute.” As the bank invests in infrastructure, hybrid working, and support programmes, Deutsche Bank is a destination for developing your skills and experiences. 

Interested in where a contract could take you? Explore contract roles here.

Interested in permanent roles as an employee? Explore permanent roles here.