Just do it: NIB’s Young Professionals reflect on their first six months

By Oliver Mølvang Hermansen, Associate Communications Officer, NIB

The Nordic Investment Bank’s (NIB) newly launched Young Professionals Programme has completed its first rotation, with four energetic graduates. Coming in with fresh perspectives from Latvia, Norway and Sweden, they share their first impressions and experiences of their new chapter working at NIB and living in Helsinki.

The four young talents have been working at NIB as associates since September 2025 as part of the first Young Professionals Programme (YPP), offering two years of rotations across the Bank’s key business areas.

A varied start across the Bank
A key part of the programme is the possibility of exploring different areas of the Bank early in a career. This has helped the associates better understand what they enjoy doing, something that is often difficult to know in advance.

“What’s nice about the rotation is that you get to try different types of work and figure out what you actually like,” says Emma Grindal Bryne, who joined the Lending Department.

At the same time, the work itself has been hands-on from the beginning.

“So, I’ve worked on portfolio, credit and liquidity risk, redeveloping reports, supporting cloud and data migration, and improving processes,” says Kristofers Grauds, who joined the Risk & Compliance Department.

First impressions and lessons learned
Starting at NIB has meant adjusting quickly to a more complex and less predictable working environment than expected.

“This is my first job after university, so I thought things would be more black and white. But I’ve realised that no deal is the same, and you have to find the best solution for both the bank and the client,” Emma explains.

For others, learning has involved communication and collaboration.

“I’ve realised how important it is to have very clear and transparent communication with stakeholders, and to explain the decisions we make and how they are made,” says Kristofers.

Responsibility from the start
Across the first rotation, one experience stands out: the level of responsibility early on.

“The most challenging part has been getting so much responsibility so early, especially in a new company and role. The rewarding part is growing into the role and contributing more,” says Marcus Abbestam, who joined the Sustainability and Mandate unit.

At the same time, it means figuring out how to work in a new environment. As Emma puts it, “Everyone works differently, so you have to find your own way, and that’s been quite challenging.”

Working at NIB
Beyond the tasks themselves, the working environment is a key part of the experience.

“It’s been really nice to have the opportunity to do the same kind of work as more senior colleagues. I like that there is room for not being perfect, and that feedback, both positive and constructive, is welcomed. I think the people are the most important part of a job,” Emma emphasises.

Henrik August Bremnes, who joined the Treasury and Finance Department, points to the organisation’s flat structure and openness.

“The culture is very Nordic and flat in its hierarchy, and I feel like I can talk to anyone across the organisation.”

Overall, it is the people that stand out most across their experiences, both professionally and socially. There is also a strong sense of community across the Bank.

“The institution’s size is perfect for getting to know people, and everyone has been very welcoming,” Kristofers says.

Life in Helsinki
Relocating to Finland has added another dimension to the experience, both professionally and personally.

“It’s been very valuable moving to a new country where you don’t know anyone. You get to know yourself better, and it’s been a very positive experience,” says Emma.

At the same time, everyday life in Helsinki has been easy to settle into, both in and outside the office.

“It’s been a great opportunity to explore a new city and meet people, especially through work and social activities,” Marcus adds.

Why NIB’s YPP?
When reflecting on what motivated them to apply, both purpose and the opportunity to explore different areas stand out.

“One of the most important things for me was that this is a bank with a stronger purpose beyond just creating shareholder value,” says Kristofers.

“It’s a unique opportunity to work at an organisation that combines finance with real impact,” Marcus says.

Henrik also highlights the appeal of trying different parts of the Bank while gaining international experience early in his career.

Advice to future applicants
For any future NIB young professionals, the group’s message is clear: take the opportunity and be open to learning.

“Be curious and patient; not everything is learned overnight,” says Emma.

Henrik underlines the importance of keeping open-minded, especially at the beginning:

“Be open-minded, as the beginning can feel overwhelming, but you’ll have a strong support network.”

Marcus points to what makes the programme stand out: “NIB isn’t a typical bank or international organisation, but something in between, where you can learn from both sides.”

“Just do it. It’s a unique opportunity, and it’s been a rewarding experience for me,” adds Kristofers.

Plans and ambitions for the future
Looking ahead, the focus is on continuing to learn and develop, both individually and within the organisation.

The associates emphasise building skills over time and making the most of the opportunities available.

“I’m at a point where I’m trying to learn as much as possible and develop some niche skills, especially with access to so much information at NIB,” says Henrik.

Meet the four associates from the YPP
Emma Grindal Bryne (NOR) joined the Lending Department in her first rotation.

Kristofers Grauds (LV) joined the Risk & Compliance Department in his first rotation.

Marcus Abbestam (SWE) joined the Sustainability and Mandate unit in his first rotation.

Henrik August Bremnes (NOR) joined the Treasury and Finance Department in his first rotation.

Learn more about NIB’s Young Professionals Programme here.