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  4. SMBC Industrial Placement Programme 2026-2027
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Our Industrial Placement Programme is designed for undergraduate university students who are completing a year in industry as part of their degree. The 12-month development programme will allow you to build your professional and technical capability and be immersed in a culturally diverse environment with a unique Japanese heritage.

We have exciting placement opportunities available across 20+ different departments, including roles within our Front office including sales and trading, international structured finance, leveraged finance, transportation finance and corporate banking. Our Front Office is supported by many departments, including ESG, Risk, Audit, Compliance, Finance, Communications, Operations, HR, Compliance in which we have available positions in too.  To learn more about our departments click here

Come and join our Industrial Placement programme at SMBC!

Please watch Evangeline day as an intern with us A day in the life of an SMBC Intern: Evangeline.

The programme

SMBC’s 12-month programme comprises of an initial orientation and an introduction to banking and finance. Our programme provides you with a blend of practical experience and networking opportunities, so you can unlock your potential and pursue your career aspirations.

The core development programme is ongoing throughout the year, supplemented with key networking and learning opportunities. Our placement students are also highly encouraged to engage with our internal employee-led diversity networks.

You’ll receive ongoing support from a key internal network – Programme Manager, Line Manager and Buddy.

What do we need from you?

  • Students looking to apply to the 2026 Industrial Placement Programme should be undertaking a year in industry as part of their degree
  • Eligible students will be graduating in 2028

Valued skills

  • Interest in pursuing a future career in banking and finance
  • Desire to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Curious and self-motivated
  • Team orientated approach

What’s on offer?

  • £30,000 base salary
  • We also offer a sign-on award to support you as you embark on your placement year 
  • We offer a competitive benefits package to support all employees through important life stages, including:
  • Private medical insurance
  • Hybrid working
  • 25 days annual leave (pro-rated)
  • Subject to standard performance reviews and available positions, placement students may be considered for a Full-Time role in 2028.

How to Apply?

We have a simple application process consisting of 2 stages:

  • Complete the application questions & submit your CV (we do not require a cover letter)
  • If successful, we will invite you for a panel interview consisting of two meetings
  • If successful, you will receive an offer to join our industrial placement programme

We would not expect an AI generated response to our application questions, we are looking to see your own personal example and insights as we value honesty and integrity. 

About us

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) is a leading global bank and a core member of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, one of the world’s largest financial institutions by assets. We combine global reach with deep Japanese heritage, tracing our origins back over 400 years to copper and kimono merchants in Japan.

Today, we are a trusted financial partner to clients around the world, with a strong and enduring presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) that spans more than a century. Our universal banking platform - covering structured and trade finance, investment banking, treasury, and asset leasing - supports growth and resilience in an ever-changing world.

We operate a network of over 120,000 employees across 150 offices in more than 40 countries, including 20+ offices in EMEA. At SMBC, we empower our people to think globally while fostering a collaborative spirit that keeps us connected.

We’re always looking for curious and ambitious minds who are ready to learn, grow, and contribute from day one. If you're eager to work on real projects, make an impact, and be part of a supportive team - SMBC is the place for you. 

Be our difference. Start your journey with SMBC.