Solution Architect Review

At AstraZeneca my current job role is a solution architect. We are creating a new R&D headquarters that will be based in Cambridge, as a result we need to look at all of the technological solutions for that building to make it a cutting edge R&D facility. My daily tasks include reaching out to new suppliers whilst doing research for innovative technology that could help scientists work more efficiently. My responsibilities include ensuring that the new site is fit out with the best technology available.

Since joining the scheme I have been able to improve on my hard and soft skills. The harder skills including qualifications such as a Digital Technology Solutions Degree which i will be finishing in 2019 in IT Consultancy. I have been able to go on various agile methodology courses and lucky enough to work to a TOGAF Architecture certifications. My softer skills include greater confidence, ability to present to hundreds of people, communication skills and development in my leadership skills.

I didn't expect to enjoy the programme as much as I do today. When I joined the scheme I didn't have any experience in IT, not even an A level. So joining the scheme seemed a good opportunity to develop that skill-set however I wasn't sure how I was going to take to it. Since I have joined the scheme I haven't been able to stop talking about it to all my relatives and friends some of which have applied to the scheme. The culture encourages early talent development and focuses on the career path you are interested in.

I am very happy with AstraZeneca and feel very valued, the exposure we get to higher management is great and are always included on events promoting the scheme and AstraZeneca's values.

When I joined the scheme there was a structure but it was still in development. Due to them only have a few years of Apprentices before our year they were still taking feedback on how they could improve it and still are today which is a refreshing way of improving it. The structure is looking good today and will improve as the years go on. In terms of mentoring, we are given 2 mentors and 1 buddy on arrival to AZ. One mentor for University and one for career aspirations and a buddy which is the year above you on the scheme to help you settle in.

The university training provider is only realistically there on the day we go to university. In terms of full-time support on the scheme this is usually done by our employer, however the university does do a review in your workplace every month to check how your university vs work workload is going.

AstraZeneca is fantastic with support to early talent. Each placement manager seems to be well versed in young talent and methods of developing them, you are also given 2 mentors and a buddy as you join the organisation and everybody around you in there to help you day-to-day.

My salary is very good, I would be able to move out and afford my own rent on top of a car if needed, daily and social costs as well are achievable through the salary.

There are absolutely loads of opportunities outside of work. We are always invited to talk about our Apprenticeship at numerous schools that we have built a relationship with, we entered the Brathay challenge last year, we're able to interact with the local community doing charity events. The Early Talent lead is very supportive of these kinds of interactions as it helps us develop as young people.

Yes

It is a young talent friendly environment where you are always pushed to develop. On my first day at AstraZeneca the early talent lead said "We want to treat Apprentices like Ferrari's, we will test you till you reach your maximum capacity." This really inspired me because it meant I was going to be treated like a normal member of staff being given meaningful work rather than a stereotypical Apprenticeships job role.

I would say, stand out, show AstraZeneca why you are different to every other applicant that wants to have that spot. AZ doesn't necessarily look only at grades, they are looking for someone with unique qualities they don't currently have in the Apprenticeship workforce. If you are able to show that you go the extra mile and have your own passions and love to lead, then highlight this!