DBS, the Singapore bank, has launched for new talent development programmes as part of a drive to build banking talent in the city-state.

The programmes are aimed at diploma and degree holders who have just graduated to be groomed for careers in retail banking, small and medium enterprise banking and customer service. Programme candidates will be given accelerated training, job rotations, networking sessions and mentoring from senior leaders. 

DBS has existing Management Associate and Graduate Associate programmes to develop its talent pool from entry level to senior management, which have collectively received over 7,000 applications in 2012. The bank will be selecting more than 200 new graduates for six programmes, including the four new ones. 

"Banking is a popular career choice for many; and with the growth potential and dynamism of Asia, there is keen interest to join DBS," said Lee Yan Hong, group head of human resources at DBS Bank, in a statement. 

DBS has over 250 branches across 15 markets in Asia.