Finance Apprentice Review

I am currently working as a Finance Analyst within GSK. This role falls within a financal reporting team so I am involved in analysing the transactions which go through our accounts and communicating with the markets in various countries to ensure the accounts reflect their true position. I am responsible for also ensuring that certain controls are performed each month so that we meet the international requirements for auditing.

GSK sponsors me to complete my Level 4 CIMA certificate level qualification. I will be completing this soon and I can then go on to be sponsored to complete the next level so that I become a chartered management accountant. As well as this qualification GSK has also helped me to develop skills valuable in the work place and build my confidence. I am currently training to become an ADP practitioner so that I can coach others on how to improve certain aspects around the work place.

The GSK culture and people who I work with are what make the role. There is quite a relaxed atmosphere and everyone is happy to help you out with any issues you have. The work is interesting but at times I haven't enjoyed it as much as I haven't felt challenged. However, after speaking with my manager they've made sure to give me more work and involve me in different areas which I've expressed an interest in. I would say that this apprenticeship has met my expectations going in.

GSK feels it's important to ensure people receive the appropriate recognition so there's an internal employee recognition program where other employees can nominate you for cash rewards for your work or send an e-card to show your thanks. My manager is also good at ensuring credit is given where it's due and that everyone in the team feels involved.

I was in the 2nd intake into this programme so there were some teething problems which took some time to iron out when it came to inductions and task delegation. However this has now improved. You need to take some responsibility for getting enrolled on to your courses for the CIMA qualification but they are there to support you if you have any issues with getting this done in a timely manner.

We are aligned to a tutor from Kaplan who support us through completing our portfolio and also any issues we have with the exams and training. I feel as though she's always there if I have any issues to talk about even if we don't have a meeting planned. We have scheduled catchups every month or so where we hand in the next piece of our coursework, go through it together and then she will set the next piece.

My manager is excellent at providing support and getting me involved in any areas she thinks I might enjoy or have expressed an interest. She is also very keen to help me soak up as much knowledge as possible and takes the time to explain any of the technical accounting elements which I don't understand. GSK as a whole also has many support channels available for lots of different issues - finances, health, time management etc.

At first I was unsure how well the salary would cover my costs as I live quite far out, however GSK also provide a travel allowance to the people on our scheme so that has helped me out. Through the time I've been here they have given reasonable pay rises in line with the rest of the company and also with the change in job responsibility. I would say that the salary package provided is very generous as I am still training and I am able to afford to go on holidays and have a good social life so I'm happy with this.

The two teams I have worked in have organised quite regular team outings for us after work which is a good way to get to know each other outside of work. GSK also organises a Christmas party of their staff and at my office throughout the summer there are often BBQs held as 'thank yous' to the staff. We are close to GSK house so there are also sports clubs which can be joined combined with the employees who work there.

Yes

I think that GSK is a good company to work for as they have strong values which they stick to and treat their employees well. There is a good atmosphere in the work place and everyone is friendly and happy to help out. It is also a generous programme which puts you in a good position if you'd like to carry on with your studies. GSK is also a well-known and respected company which will look good for any jobs you may go for in the future.

When I applied for the role I was required to answers some questions, do a few small tests and then had an assessment day with an interview. It is important to prepare for these as they're quite competitive. I would advise researching the company and their values beforehand as they feel very strongly about these. Also be sure to be yourself so they can see how you would fit in with the company and play to your strengths!