IT Service Lifecycle Management Analyst Apprentice Review

I work with the CMDB (configuration management database) and the services and underlying infrastructure within. My stream of work is Lifecycle management, which involves measuring the risk of services. We look at when the service infrastructure will go out of support. E.g. If it is already out of support, this will show as a high risk.

I have definitely developed a lot of skills whilst completing my apprenticeship including interpersonal skills, and my confidence has grown greatly. I have taken part in numerous courses internally and externally, as well as completing qualifications (BTEC level 4 and foundation degree) whilst doing my apprenticeship.

I thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship and it definitely meets my expectations. My team is really supportive, friendly and overall great to work with, along with everyone else in the office.

I feel valued by my manager who allows me to get involved with many aspects of work within the team. I have received recognition internally and externally for the work I have completed as a result of positive feedback which has been given by my manager and other members of my team.

We completed an induction along with other apprentices beginning at the same time which included basic training and information about our apprenticeships. We have local support from the apprenticeship team, who are always available if needed. We also have a mentoring system where we are paired with an employee within the business which is also beneficial.

Our training provider visits around once a month and provides face to face feedback on any work completed, and provides support on how we can improve this work going forwards.

Our employer is external to Unilever, but visit every week. We are scheduled to speak face to face with our employer around once every 4-6 weeks but they are in the office every week in case we need to speak about anything.

For an apprenticeship wage we are paid well. I live at home however I pay rent, and my wage also covers travel costs - my own car on finance, petrol, insurance etc.

There are some opportunities outside of work which allow us to get involved in company activities, but these are usually locally based. They include volunteering opportunities which help the local community.

Yes

Unilever is a great company to work for, there is lots of support for apprentices from managers, the apprenticeship team and other members of staff. It is a great opportunity to be in a work environment.

The application process is long, and involves online tests, interviews and an assessment day, but the best thing to do is have confidence when being interviewed and try not to get too nervous. If you have had a previous job, it may be useful to write down competency examples e.g. when have you worked in a team.