Associate Project Manager Review

I am currently splitting my time between two key roles, Associate Project Manager and Associate Business Analyst to allow for insight into both roles. Daily tasks a Project manager include managing project plans, risks and issues, financials and basic decision making for upgrading our old PCs in the labs at AstraZeneca. I work directly with the scientists to pull plans together to move away from an old Operating system and ensure we align to the security standards. I facilitate conversations and local meetings while also working directly with Sweden on the same project. In terms of Business Analysis, tasks include engaging closely with the business to understand their IT frustrations and suggestions to improve the IT environment. By maintaining these relationships, basic requirements are gathered and highlighted to higher management to understand if this is something we focus on and build a business case to move into project state. A lot of responsibility is given.

Aside from qualifications, including a Level 3 NVQ in Business in Administration (from the previous apprenticeship at AZ) I am now studying towards a BsC hons in Digital Technology and Solutions (IT and business). This will aid me to further develop in my career and everybody at work see's the benefits learning while applying this to the work environment. We've had access to internal training such as project management skills and agile training. We also have basic IT courses available everyday such as excel. I feel my confidence has developed greatly and also communication on many different levels.

I really enjoy the programme I am currently on. I can see real benefit in doing it and i've also made life long friends at work and on the programme. It's gone way above and beyond my expectations and we get so much support at work and university we really have a unique opportunity.

I feel very valued at AstraZeneca. We have an Early Talent programme that we are all on which allows for further development and understanding of AstraZeneca while also allowing each apprentice/ graduate to showcase what they have worked on. This is just one chanel, as I am also a valued member of my team. My manager constantly pushes me to take on more responsibility while supporting me. I have previously been asked to get involved with showcasing various things across the site - a big responsibility that I was trusted with.

Throughout the years our programme has got better in being orgniased and structured. When AZ first took on apprentices, colleagues weren't too confident in what we can manage and take on. Now 5 years down the line, there are high expectations and through feedback the course has got much better. There is still a bit more work to do, but it's been recognised and everbodys voice is heard.

We receieve lots of support from university, who push for us to get study leave from work as they appreciate how much we have on. They are available on email and calls outside of the one day a week we go to uni. The general attitude to supporting us is brilliant and they appreciate if we are a little behind on something and will ensure support is given to get back up to speed.

We also receieve lots of support from the employer. They ensure that we are up to date with university work and attend reviews with a member of staff from UNI to ensure any feedback is discussed. I have an agreement with my manager to take study leave close to assignment and exams, and as long as i'm top of work he is more than happy to allow me to take this time.

The starting salary for the apprenticeship is competitive and personally I think covers what you'd need when coming in to that line of work. Once we are made permenant, we get a salary increase. In terms of travel/living costs, these are easily covered and i think we are lucky at a young age to be on the competitive wage.

AstraZeneca promote being a great place to work, whereby they offer voulenteering days and community events. As an apprentice group, we have made a charity commitment to the Teenage Cancer Trust so are constantly organising various events inside and outside of work. There are also multiple events that AstraZeneca promote and a gym on site at work with discounted prices. We also try and do sports over summer one day a week.

Yes

It's a great place to work with loads of opportunities. I never thought i'd enjoy IT as much as I do, and through lots of guidance i've been able to build skills and develop into my career.

Within the application process, I would suggest to make sure you stand out with your previous experiences and how you have managed to overcome problems. Take your time and review - no need to rush. Interviews and assessment days can be scary but everybody makes you feel comfortable and appreciates where you are in your career. Being confident is key and ensuring you have researched the company will give you a good understanding.