HR Apprentice Review

Managing absence end to end, disciplinaries, grievances, personal projects, continuous improvement projects. Managing recruitment of apprentices, managing the training of supply chain apprentices directly with providers, providing day to day advice and support to employees on site, managing payroll independently, calculating overtime payments, pay queries, case management, escalations to senior leaders

Working in HR has given me many new skills that I did not have previously, such as HR specifically; managing cases and workload, a full understanding of policies and the legal implications companies face when these are not abided by, along with employment law and tribunals. I further enhanced my skills such as; time management, organisation and team work.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my programme, I enjoy speaking to and helping people, which is the main part of my job role. It has given me the opportunity to meet lots of new people and develop my networks in HR and the wider industry which has allowed me to learn skills from a wide variety of people within the business

Being the first HR apprentice for my company and the first level 5 cohort for my training provider has proven to raise some challenges, after a few months my training provider has ironed out most niggles and became much better structured and organised. My on the job experience has been very reactive rather than proactive. Which has been both a hindrance and benefit as I may not have experienced projects such as a restructure otherwise.

I receive a little support from my employer, however a lot of my work is reactive with support only available if I ask for it. A lot of issues arose from my employer being misinformed regarding my programme and training time allocation, which has proven difficult to complete studies at times

My training provider has been incredibly supportive in assisting me to complete my studies, they are on hand to answer any questions or queries and will assist in supporting me to speak to my employer regarding my studies where required. I am given regular feedback which is always constructive and helpful

My qualification gives me a better understanding of the theory that applies to my role, helping me to understand why and how certain things take place, such as restructures. It also assists me in understanding the legal implications my employer can face in line with employment law. This gives me a better awareness off my indirect surroundings to better my understanding of the full impact of my role

extra curricular availability is very limited at my site, not being a main hub for the business. However I do utilise the free gym membership that is offered. I regularly attend professional networking events both internally and externally, this is encouraged by my employer and allows me to build my network to assist my career in the future.

Yes

Whilst I wouldn't recommend a friend to work in the HR department, I would recommend many of our other departments. Unilever offers great benefits and career progression for many people who work here, providing a wealth of experience and knowledge that you may not obtain in a smaller business.

Be yourself, be positive. Its key when looking to join a business such as Unilever to show passion and positivity, being positive allows for a great learning and collaborations working environment which is highly encouraged. Being passionate about the work you do directly impacts the quality of the work you'll output. Both being important indicators for success.