Analyst Review

Most of the role is concerned with project admin and project management. This includes: performing take-on procedures when we have a new client or engagement; drafting engagement letters; keeping track of time spent by the firm on the project; and billing. There is some actual project work as well, such as attending project calls and client meetings, drafting of reports and direct client interaction, although this is rarer. There is also regular training, from weekly informal hour-long sessions to bigger events held over the course of several days once or twice a year.

The main area of skill development has been in project maintenance and management. Familiarity with how projects get managed here has led me to be more efficient and therefore more valuable to the engagement teams, which then leads to greater responsibility. Time and workload management have also been key skills to learn, and the ability to manage people's expectations about what you can do in a given timeframe has been very useful.

The programme has allowed me to connect with many people of my own age and interests, as well as allowing exposure to very senior and intelligent people at the firm, both of which are very enjoyable. The work itself is not so inspiring, however it is necessary to go through to allow much more responsibility and more exciting work in the future.

The programme seems incredibly well structured, with clear goals set and support given both inside and outside the company. At times, it can see like there is too much structure, e.g. too many little milestones that have to be achieved that can distract from getting on with the work itself - although this is a small, not large, problem.

My employer has a great culture of providing support, and often checks up on progress and encourages me to reach out to one of a large number of people if I feel I need help. The internal coaches at the company can be less proactive, but are perfectly happy to help if I initiate any conversations.

The training provider is proactive at ensuring I have signed up for any exams and courses necessary while working towards my qualifications. The training courses they put on are easily digestible and the course teachers are, on the whole, engaging and enjoyable to learn from. They have also been in regular contact with me to ensure I am happy with my progress and to encourage me to share any concerns I may have.

The qualification (and training) doesn't provide any immediate performance boost, as most of the work is around project management. However, it is very clear for me to see how useful it will be in the near future, when I am assigned more responsibility on projects and have more input on producing the deliverable for any project, as well as when I interact with clients and need to have that core understanding.

There are many different events and groups at the company to get involved in, including an onsite gym, various formal and informal sports teams, and regular team socials and drinks. It is very easy to quickly feel comfortable in the team and through these events and activities, it's easy to get to know everyone after only a short time.

Yes

It provides a substantial support network and defined career path, which is especially true for those who are joining in an entry-level position. The salary is competitive and the promotion structure is transparent with according salary increases. The people who work here are very easy to work with and get on with, making work more enjoyable. The size and scale of the company means that if you find that you're interested in another part of the company, or wish to move abroad, it is relatively easy to do so.

Research the specific role you're applying to, and if possible speak to someone already in that role to fully understand it. Make sure that you are prepared to work long hours at times, whether that is in the office or while studying for exams. If you put the required effort in, the rewards are proportionately large.