Digital Apprentice Review

My primary role is to provide data analytic solutions and insights for corporate transaction events. My daily tasks are largely split into two parts. The first part involves reviewing, cleaning, and preparing large sets of data to provide a consolidated and clear picture of the data and financials. The second part involves using this data to drive 'analytics' in the form of visual charts and graphs to show trends, changes over time, and performance of the company in question with a view of telling a 'story' and providing further insights.

In terms of technical skills I have developed skills and competencies in analytic tools such as Alteryx, Spotfire, Tableau; accounting and financial fundamentals; skills in computing and languages such as SQL, Python, Excel. These are developed on the job and supported by classes taken as required by the programme. I have also developed soft skills in leadership and interpersonal skills working within teams on project engagements.

I have no complaints, enjoying most aspects of the programme so far. The work is interesting and engaging, learning new things and developing skills every week. The company and work environment is very welcoming, there is a great support network and the work-life balance is managed well. There are also a lot of opportunities to learn and develop further both professionally and personally.

As this is a relatively new programme, there is definitely room for further development and improvements in the structure and organisation of the 3-4 years. Despite this, the training on the job has been great and support is always available. The company is somewhat understanding in terms of flexible working and providing enough time to fulfill studying requirements.

Support from the company has been great. The line manager is almost always available to provide help and additional guidance at work. Team members are also very willing to chip in when needed. We also get a personal counselor and mentor, who we have regular 1 to 1 sessions with, bi-monthly, to discuss any and all issues, goals and development in and out of work.

Support from the training provider has been hit or miss depending on the module and class it relates to. Some lecturers are very responsive and helpful, whereas others may take a bit longer. The provider does provide regular web classes to provide additional support and training, such as classes on writing skills. We also have a mentor who we have catch-ups with, every quarter, to discuss any issues and development as we progress through the programme.

The classes and modules that we have enrolled to have been clearly assigned with our day-to-day role in mind. There are takeaways from classroom learning that have been useful and applied at work. It is still too early to provide a definitive answer, being as I have only completed two modules to date, but I am confident that future classes will be beneficial to my role at work.

There are many opportunities to get involved in events and activities. You will be in a service line team which will have regular events, drinks, days out. They are always a good chance to get to know new people, have a chat and and network within your team or others at EY. There are also opportunities to be involved in external events and meetups but this is largely dependent on the service line you go into.

Yes

EY is a very reputable and trusted company in the industry and therefore a great place to start a career in financial services. The company provides a great deal of support and the culture and people create an enjoyable work environment. There are a lot of opportunities at the company and much room to grow and develop as a a person and as a professional.

Know why you are applying to EY. If you are not interested in the role and industry, it will show during the application process but more importantly you will not get the most out of your time here. Be confident in your own abilities. People at EY will present you with opportunities and everyone has a voice at the company, so be confident and believe in your own abilities since your input will likely add value.