A Day in the Life | Umar Mohammed

Have you ever wondered what life at Redwood Bank looks like? We have been talking to our colleagues to find out what they enjoy about working at the Bank – and what they like to do in their downtime.

First up is our IT Support and Cyber Security Analyst Umar Mohammed, always a popular face around the office – and not just because he knows how to fix computer issues.

He lets us take a glimpse into his life inside and outside work and reveals some interesting details…

How does your day start – and how does it end?

My average day is always action-packed, which is something I really enjoy as it keeps me busy and productive.

My day starts by feeding my two pet rabbits (always greedy) as well as fuelling myself with a health-balanced breakfast before heading into the office. We begin each morning with our IT stand-up, where we discuss our priorities for the day, any urgent issues and have a quick catch-up to get everyone ready for the day ahead.

Once the working day is over, I head home for a light snack before making my way to one of my favourite places – the gym. I enjoy training with my brother and a close friend, as it’s a great way to stay healthy, unwind and catch up with the friendly community there. We usually finish with a relaxing sauna session which our gym offers as part of our membership before heading home.

In the evening, I enjoy dinner, catch up on personal emails and spend some time learning about the latest developments in IT and cyber security. To round off the day, I’ll watch a bit of YouTube or Netflix before getting some rest and doing it all again the next day.

What is the one thing you look forward to each week in the office?

The one thing I look forward to most each week is seeing everyone in the office. Since joining Redwood Bank in 2022, my journey has been shaped by being surrounded by positive, supportive people who encourage one another and create a great working environment. I genuinely believe this has been one of the core reasons behind my success and progression within the Bank and personally too.

From being greeted by my favourite receptionist, who somehow manages to keep up with my endless stream of IT parcels, to catching up with colleagues across the Bank, everyone plays a part in making the office such a welcoming place. Seeing so many friendly faces gives me the motivation to start each day on a positive note.

How does working at Redwood differ from anywhere else you’ve worked?

Working at Redwood Bank is different because of the people, the culture and the opportunities it provides. From day one, I have felt supported by colleagues who genuinely want to see each other succeed. The positive culture, collaboration across teams and encouragement to share ideas have made it a great place to develop my career.

One thing that really stands out is the Bank’s culture. There are always opportunities to get involved in social events, connect with colleagues across the business and have your voice heard. Whether it’s sharing ideas, taking part in initiatives or contributing to improvements, you feel valued and encouraged to make a difference.

Redwood has also invested in my professional growth. It’s a workplace where hard work is recognised, opportunities are created, and you’re encouraged to keep learning and developing.

What would an average day look like?

An average day consists of various tasks; it could involve me dealing with cyber security monitoring, performing IT operational resilience testing to dealing with banking system projects, repairing AV systems or something as simple as fixing a broken monitor and this is exactly why I love my job. It keeps me very busy and productive as well as exposing me to all elements of IT and meeting every department and allowing me to engage with the whole business.

How has your career progressed since being at the Bank?

After completing my computer science degree, I wanted to apply my knowledge in a real-world environment, and Redwood Bank offered the perfect opportunity as a growing challenger bank. My career has progressed significantly since joining as an IT Support Technician.

After two years of hard work, commitment and contributing new ideas, I was promoted to IT Support Analyst, taking on greater responsibilities in IT infrastructure and compliance. With the Bank’s support, I also gained Microsoft and cyber security qualifications, which helped me progress into my current role as IT Support and Cyber Security Analyst as I have always been passionate about cyber security.

My current position reflects both my professional development and the Bank’s investment in my growth, allowing me to help strengthen Redwood Bank’s cyber security posture and resilience.

Which teams do you work closest with?

I work very closely with the Banking Operations department (don’t have my favourites but love them all in this department – they do sure keep me on my toes). This team is at the heart of the business and plays a vital role in supporting our customers. As the engine room of the Bank, this team relies on IT support across a wide range of areas, from hardware and software troubleshooting to cyber security. My role is to ensure they have the technology and security they need to work efficiently while helping protect the Bank from potential cyber threats.

Do you have a go-to lunch or snack?

My go-to lunch is plain and simple and reaches most of my nutrition goals. Five grilled chicken tenders served on a bed of rice and salad along with a piece of fruit. A good blend of protein, carbohydrates and fibre. Eating well is very key to ensure you have the right amount of energy to prepare you for the day ahead!

What would we find you doing at the weekend?

You will find me strictly doing these four things! I will either be relaxing with my family and pet rabbits, at the gym, catching up with friends or working on the two project cars I own.

If you could hold a dream dinner party, which three guests would you invite (dead or alive)?

If I could hold a dream dinner party, I would invite Barack Obama, Amir Khan and Steve Irwin.

I would invite Barack Obama because he promotes positivity and has been a great role model for young people through his leadership and inspiring attitude and really inspired me growing up to work hard.

I would invite the boxer Amir Khan because he was a huge inspiration to me growing up, and I loved watching his exciting boxing matches and would love to discuss with him over dinner his amazing boxing matches.

Finally, I would invite Steve Irwin because I grew up watching Croc Files. His passion for nature and wildlife made learning fun and his legacy continues to inspire people and would love to have him at my dinner table. May he rest in peace.

Tell us a fact not many people would know about you.

I have an identical twin brother who is 15 minutes older than me!