Learning more in a people first environment

18 August 2021

We believe the best way to learn is to do – so that’s at the core of our summer programme.

To develop deep professional experience, our interns run structured projects throughout their time here.

Alumni intern Eddie McLaughlin shares how putting his skills into practice at Saltgate has helped him learn more about private equity.

Where are you at in your studies?

I’m going into the fourth year of my Politics undergrad degree at University of Glasgow – I’m enjoying it.

What’s your role and what are your responsibilities within Saltgate?

I’m an intern trainee administrator – I’m currently doing annual confirmations and projects to smooth over every day admin tasks. I’ve filled out lots of FATCA/CRS forms, and I’m picking up jobs that other administrators might have less time to do, so it’s really helpful to them.

What are your hobbies or what do you do for fun?

I like to watch and play football. When I’m in Scotland, I like going on hikes – there’s quite a few that you can do near Glasgow. Before covid I enjoyed travelling too.

What did you want to be when you were young?

A classic response – I almost certainly wanted to be a footballer!

Do you have a hidden talent?

I think my talent is still hidden to me, but I do a pretty good Donald Duck impression.

What’s your favourite part of your role?

During covid, it’s been really nice to be in the office surrounded by a lovely team.

What’s been the best experience you’ve has as an intern at Saltgate?

I’m an alumni intern, so my best experience would have to be the fact I won one of the group projects last year, and came second in another.

What’s been the most surprising thing?

Before doing the internship, I didn’t really know much about private equity or the industry, but I’m learning a lot about the client, what they do, and the number of other businesses you encounter through working on them.

What advice would you give a student considering an internship or work experience?

Sit near Tor Binet as she’s really nice!

What’s your favourite part of Saltgate culture?

It’s generally a really friendly environment. Everyone knows each other which is nice because people don’t say that about bigger companies – people tend to be faceless there.