#NoWrongPath 2026 Blog | Bruce Fleming, M&G

Finding a career that offers both immediate opportunity and long-term impact is a driving goal for many professionals starting out in the financial services sector. In this compelling case study, Bruce Fleming, a Digital Product Owner at M&G, proves that there is truly #NoWrongPath when building a career. Read on to discover how learning on the job, embracing new opportunities like the Scottish Financial Enterprise Young Professionals Network (SFE YPN), and staying curious can lead to a deeply fulfilling professional journey.

Bruce Fleming
Digital Product Owner
M&G

What first sparked your interest in working in the Financial Services Sector, and how did that lead to the specific role you're in now?

I have always had a interest in financial services due to the amount of opportunity and impact you can make in a role within the sector, this meant I wanted a role where I can make a real difference which in my role, I get to do through having a direct impact to adviser and customer experience through enhancements and improvements being delivered.

Can you describe the journey that brought you to your current role — and what made you choose that particular path (e.g., apprenticeship, degree, career switch)?

I left school at 16 (after finishing 4th year) to come and do my apprenticeship at M&G prior to this working at RBS as a on call personal banker as well as a hairdressing assistant, I have always been the person who likes to learn on the job and the apprenticeship scheme at M&G was a great opportunity to do that- So in September 2024 I joined M&G as a Apprentice Product owner, during my apprenticeship I learned lots about the role and got opportunities to put my skills to use to improve adviser & customer experience. In March, this year my apprenticeship came to a end and I got to stay within my team as a Digital Product Owner. I would definitely recommend a apprenticeship to anyone who is looking for a career in financial services!

Were there any key moments, mentors, or experiences that helped you realise this was the right fit for you?

One of the key moments I realised this role was the right fit for me was when I could see the impact we make as well as when you can link it back to things you worked on too. Also when I realised how I can get involved with events/ groups outside my role for example the SFE YPN and the opportunities that are opened up to you once you start getting involved.

What aspects of your current role do you find most fulfilling, and did that align with what you expected when you started?

What I find most fulfilling is getting to have a impact and see where you have made an impact as well as getting to enhance my knowledge and skills while doing so. This is just what I wanted to do and is better than what I expected!

Looking back, is there anything you would tell your younger self (or someone starting out) about finding a role that truly fits them?

If I could give people one piece of advice on finding a role which suits them I would say think of what you want to get out of your career/ role, where your skills best sit and what you’re interested in. Oh and definitely don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out to people in the industry!

This inspiring story is a powerful reminder that there is #NoWrongPath and you don't need a traditional university degree to find a career you love and make a real difference. Whether you are considering an apprenticeship, a career switch, or trying to find your footing in a new industry, Bruce's journey highlights the importance of thinking about what you want out of your career, leaning into hands-on learning, and never being afraid to speak up and ask questions.