Finance & Commercial Academy Student Review

My role as a Finance & Commercial Academy Student involves lots of different 6/12 month placements in many areas of the business. I have the opportunity to work in different industries and departments whilst also studying towards my CIMA qualification.

I have developed skills from doing my CIMA qualification whilst on the scheme. I have also attended many excel courses, a time management course and a business influencing skills course which have all helped to contribute towards my professional development.

I very much enjoy the programme that I am on. Siemens have a really good culture and everybody is always very helpful and welcoming in every placement that I've been in.

I feel like I am valued by Siemens - I often get good feedback from my placement managers. We have end of placement reviews with our managers which gives a chance for them to express their appreciation and it gives you recognition for the work you have done. Additionally, getting the opportunity to get involved in things like careers fairs, involvement in the recruitment process for new people joining the scheme, keeps you motivated.

I think that the programme is very well structured. My induction when I joined was very thorough and there is a lot of focus on getting to know other people on your scheme. I think that our placements are organized well so that you know which department you are moving to next and make sure that you are happy with it.

The support we receive from our training provider is excellent. BPP always ensure that there is a tutor available to answer your questions, there have been many occasions where I have asked to see a tutor last minute a few days before an exam and they have always been able to accommodate me.

I feel that we have good support from our employer. There is the opportunity for a mentoring scheme and I think that generally there is a lot of support if you are having any problems

For me my salary meets my costs fine because I currently live at home so it may be different for those with more commitments. I am also lucky to live close to my place of work so I do not have high travel costs.

Yes there are opportunities outside of work. Siemens has lots of gym classes to go to after work, there are also company events such as the Finance and Commercial forum twice a year. I also have had the opportunity to do some local careers fair in the local area to promote the Finance & Commercial Academy scheme.

Yes

I would recommend Siemens to a friend because I think it's a great company to work for. I feel that it is a company that is conscious that their employees need to have the right work/life balance.

Tips for others: Use the assessment days/interviews to your advantage and take the opportunity to find out as much as you can about the company and the scheme.