From trainee to manager – Interview with Fabian Bahner

Three years ago, we talked about your career at ING so far. At that time, you had just been promoted to Director in Corporate Sector Lending. What has changed for you since then?

In the meantime, I have  focused more on smaller customers in the SME sector, one of the bank's growth areas. This allows me to be closer to the customer and the market, to actively participate in the acquisition of new customers and to contribute my structuring experience. Since August 2024, I have also been able to take on a team leadership role in the Corporate Sector Lending department. My temporary part-time work was never discussed.

What has changed as a result of  your leadership role?

I also take on strategic planning and leadership and try to help my team grow. I coordinate a senior team and deal with various topics, e.g. in cooperation with HR or directly on projects.

What is special about Corporate Sector Lending for you?

The cohesion between colleagues, the continuous development of our department and role in the company, which makes every year challenging, but also exciting.

You started with us as a trainee in 2012 and have been able to take on several roles to date. What do you think has changed in the different teams and what has remained constant? What can you expect at ING, regardless of the team and experience?

In 2012, our Wholesale Banking was still small and it felt like you knew everyone personally. Our sectors have developed significantly over time. As a result of the growth, individual areas have been formed that specialize in certain industries and customers.  ING's open culture has always remained the same.

How has ING supported you over the course of your career?

ING and my managers have always given me the opportunity to try out new roles and projects, both professionally and personally. As a result, I had a constant development and never felt like I was standing still. When I was on parental leave and then had to reduce my working hours for family reasons, the bank and my team supported me. That makes you feel valued. ING recognizes that employees can have different needs, and there can be different phases depending on the stage of life.

What are your plans for the next 5 years?

I've only been in my new role for about half a year, so I want to develop in it, help my employees, grow personally and have a lot of fun like in recent years.

What does your daily work look like?

Very individual, just like our cleints. I work about 60% remotely and 40% in the office. I have a lot of exchange with my colleagues and am approachable for my employees. I am also in communication with various stakeholders and have a mix of different tasks that make my daily work interesting.

What motivates you in your work?

The opportunity to work independently, to contribute my ideas and, especially in my leadership role, to be able to develop my team. Despite this role, I still have a lot of contact with clients, which is even more fun.

What drives you in life besides your job? What are you passionate about?

As a father of three children, the family definitely takes up the most space in my free time. I always find a new project in our garden, but otherwise I am also enthusiastic about everything sporty, whether active or passive. I prefer to jog or ride my bike.

What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out at ING?

Being very open to our Orange Code. There are many opportunities to try things out, experience the culture, and develop individually. In short, as our motto says: "do your thing".