Financial Analyst Review

I am a financial analyst working in the Decision Support team at Pfizer. My day-to-day activities include providing Operational Expense, Revenue, Profit and Loss and Cost of Sales reports to the commercial and business finance departments. I also have projects which are based on improving our workflow, organising social activities and more.

I have learnt many skills throughout my apprenticeship, and I can categorise them into technological, social and mental skills. My technological expertise has improved tremendously within my time, I can now use many microsoft applications, such as excel, powerpoint and power bi, and I am starting to learn how to use SAP. I have improved my public speaking, communication and leadership skills in the social aspect. Finally, I have also learnt how to work efficiently in high-stress environments and workloads.

Most days are very enjoyable. I am a person who enjoys stressful situations, which is why I enjoy our month-end as it gets very busy and I do not find myself with time to spare, so it is impossible to get bored per-se. Some days, especially during the quieter periods, can become quite dull so I do wish I had mabye a few more responsibilities.

My programme is very well organised, I have been set clear goals and timelines which I am recommended to follow and this helps organise my time and prevent me from becoming over-worked or fatigued. It has been made clear to me when I can study (took every Friday off) and when my priorities should be with work.

My host employer is very helpful with my programme. This is mainly due to the fact that there have been many apprentices that have come through the system. Therefore, they are aware of how best to support me and there are also previous apprentices who can guide me through what they have been through.

I have opted for lecture recordings in BPP's study materials, as I cannot take days off work for live sessions. This has meant that learning can be quite boring at times, however, the information is clear and there are ways to ask for further guidance. Fortunately, I have not been in a situation yet where I have had to ask for help, but I have heard they take a long time to respond.

Currently, my qualification has not provided much help to my job role. I found myself surprised that I was not doing an actual accounting role, as I would describe my day-to-day activities as more tech-based rather than financial. However, I am currently learning the next module in my course, and I can see my understanding improving as it is a bit more relevant to my role.

I am part of the Social Committee in my team, this means that I am responsible for making this extra-curricular activities. So far, we have made great progress, including a pub quiz, a volunteering event, Christmas Lunch and a Quarterly Team Meeting. There are also opportunities outside of my team, including a work football club which I have attended before.

Yes

Pfizer have supported me tremendously in transitioning from a student to a full-time corporate employee. This support included 1:1s, Apprentice Catch-Ups and general chats with others, which really helped me become a confident and capable person. I have been given amazing advice, great responsibilities and enjoyable experiences which make me confident for the future.

Be yourself and do not be afraid to ask questions