Cyber Security Analyst Review

I am in an operational team within data loss prevention. I monitor email traffic, implement security measures such as transport layer security/secure socket layer. I also educate many colleagues across the group on things such as secure email usage, acceptable usage policies and investigate breaches with line managers on a daily basis.

Since joining the Group and working on my apprenticeship, I have since learned how to communicate effectively with stakeholders and have improved my skills in stakeholder management. I have also improved my English skills as I have to write educational emails to line managers so they can share these with their colleagues.

I think the programme is rather interesting as I get to travel down south and meet apprentices from other companies. We get to compare our experiences and learn a lot from each other. One thing I would say could be improved is the courses we go on as they don’t always relate the our exams.

Due to issues with a previous learning mentor, the programme was a bit of a nightmare and not structured at all. Since getting a new mentor, I have received better communication and the programme has been a lot better. I do think improvements can be made as I don’t really know when I’m due to finish.

My employer is good at supporting me in my apprenticeship. I get twenty five percent of my week dedicated to revision and working on my projects (3 are due in the entire programme). I have catch ups with them on a monthly basis too to discuss how I am getting on.

I get given videos to watch on Plural Sight however these videos do not always match to what my exams are about. I can ask for additional materials however again these materials do not always relate to the exam. I think it would be good if more up to date past papers were given.

My apprenticeship is in cyber risk security and I work within a cyber security related role. I think the qualifications are good because I am learning things that I can share with my team and it also means I can learn from other people in my team and apply this to my exams.

I am a colleague engagement rep which means I help colleagues across my wider team with charity, fundraising and extra curricular activities. I help people organise days where they can volunteer at a third party charity for the day. I also help run a monthly newsletter that is sent to the team.

Yes

There are good opportunities available to people of all ages, skills and abilities. There is lots of room for development and progression, and you can work in virtually any environment whether this is in a call centre, a branch or IT. You meet lots of people and get good rewards.

I would tell people to work hard and ensure they are confident when speaking to others in the Group. Put yourself out there and get your name known. Networking is a great thing and it also gives you the opportunity to see other avenues you can explore. And don’t be scared to say what you think!