Project Manager Apprentice Review

I am a Project Manager Apprentice working for Mace. The job involves many different things so no two days are the same. Mainly the job role includes managing contractors/stakeholders and monitoring the progress of project to ensure that the projects are delivered on time, to the highest quality and to the client’s requirements.

Since starting the apprenticeship almost 5 months ago I have gained many new skills and developed existing ones, this includes how to professionally deal with stakeholders including contractors but more importantly clients. A side from day to day work, the external courses have allowed me to pass recognised industry and project management qualification to advance my knowledge at the same time as being able to socialise with others in similar job roles within the industry.

Although the programme is challenging and requires hard work and commitment it is extremely rewarding and enjoyable. The job variety that is involved makes the job extremely enjoyable, not only are no two days the same but also you get the opportunity to work on multiple projects across a variety of sectors which not only enhances your experience but also making it extremely enjoyable.

As an apprentice and new joiner at Mace Group, I feel extremely valued not only within the teams I work in but also by the company as a whole. In Mace there is a focus on developing young talent, therefore you quickly get lots of responsibility and tend to be left to your own devices to complete this however support will also be there when it is needed. You often get feedback from completed work to see what was done well and possible things to improve on next time.

I find that the programme is well organised, not only day to day work but also internal and external training which is provided to enhance your technical and academic knowledge. The programme provides a great balance of on the job and academic learning where there skills can be instantly transferred between the two to boost your development. Support is always at hand through your line manager and colleagues as well as regular review with the emerging talent team. A competency portfolio is also put together to help track progress and see which areas may require more training.

I attend college on a block release basis to gain my various qualifications, throughout this week I get face to face support from the skills coach/tutor who is happy to answer any questions or queries. When not attending college I am able to contact my skills coach at any point if I need anything. As well as this I have regular 1:1 sessions where the tutor comes into my workplace to discuss my progress so far with myself and my line manager.

I get a great deal of support from my employer. On a day to day basis my colleagues are willing to help and answer any questions I have, as well as my line manager who is always there to support me when it is needed whether it is a general query about processes within the company or day to day project work. On top of this I have quarterly review meetings with the emerging talent team to review my progress, who I can also contact at any point regarding my apprenticeship and training. Mace also hold regular graduate/apprentice forums which gives me the opportunity to gain further insight as to what is going on in the company, catch up with others and ask questions.

Previously I was studying A Levels and just had part time jobs therefore this is the first full time job and salary I have had. The salary is very good for what you get out of the job considering Mace pay for your academic study which otherwise would cost you thousands. Although I am based in the centre of Manchester and in various site offices the salary is sufficient to cover travel, living and daily costs as well as a very healthy social life. The experience gained at such a young age is next to none and an opportunity not to be missed.

Outside of work the opportunities are endless. Within Mace there are monthly and quarterly events for staff to meet up after work and socialise with food and drink as well as individual team nights out and a Christmas party. As an apprentice I have been given many opportunities to network with others including drinks with the directors and board members which is a fantastic opportunity. We often get the opportunity to go to client events and external chartership events to socialise with others within the industry. Each employee also gets the opportunity to help the community by using a volunteering day. As a bonus employees get a range of benefits and weekends free to do as you please.

Yes

Not only are Mace a successful global company with lots of fantastic projects to get involved with but they also consider the thoughts, opinions and wellbeing of their employees on a day to day basis. The opportunities within the company are endless due to mace being a construction and consultancy company, Mace provide a variety of services from project management to cost consultancy and Quantity Surveying. As well this Mace operate in multiple sectors in both public and private, from health and education sectors to residential therefore the job variety available is second to none. Your colleagues, line managers and others in the company will give you as much support as you need regardless of what path you choose to take. On top of this you get given the opportunity to enrol onto many benefits on top of your salary and there are lots of social opportunities to get involved with.

When applying ensure that you have done your research on the company and the job you are applying for, this will benefit you so you know what the job role consists of and what company does, allowing you to first make the decision whether the job is right for you. Remain open minded, Mace may believe you are best suited to an alternative role and may point you in that direction. Ensure that you are confident, believe in your ability, read your application/CV thoroughly and don’t be scared to challenge yourself, step into the unknown or ask questions.