Initial interview was straightforward and pleasant, and in the second interview I was able to meet more of the admin team. I was told there would be a third stage to meet the directors I’d be looking after but they cut this stage short. Initially I loved SVB and was very keen to work with them. They took one week to decide and then made me an offer. I asked for a couple of days to make my decision (given personal things I had going on, as well as other similar offers). They refused and pressed me to make a quick decision otherwise I would be deemed “not committed” to SVB. They continued to pressure and threatened to withdraw the offer so I was forced to decline. SVB will sell themselves to you as people who care about all the employees, have great work/life balance, and have your best interests at heart. I did not find this to be true in practice, as they refused my request to simply take two days to consider their offer. Not great practice.

Telephone interview with a member of the HR Team at SVB. Asked the Standard interview questions about strengths and weaknesses. The HR contact described the company ethos, culture and values.