Change Manager Review

As a Change Control Manager, my role is to provide end to end project management of small and medium change projects and initiatives and to support other areas and project managers on larger projects as necessary. My responsibilities include undertaking analysis of current processes, identifying areas for improvement, whether that be for risk, control, financial or legal and regulatory purposes; mapping out new processes/changes and subsequently working with the relevant business areas to implement the improvement; keeping sufficient audit trails through actions logs and project portfolios and providing reports and updates to senior management.

I have been able to develop my communication skills by focussing on utilising different methods as opposed to communicating purely by 1 (which was previously only really by email). I have also thought about the body language I use when I do communicate face to face. Whilst i have previously written essay's at University, my essay writing skills have also improved.

Whilst I am only 7 months into my 3 years programme, I have enjoyed the modules undertaken thus far. When looking at the original plan, the first 4 modules were not necessarily ones I was looking forward to however I have been surprised and have enjoyed modules such as Sales and Marketing (something that is not as appropriate to my role).

From the outset, the programme looks to be structured very well, there is a clear timetable that is provided at the start of the 3 years, allowing to plan sufficiently. Module documents are also provided for the whole first year allowing the forecast/plan however there has been occasions of mis-interpretation of what is required within the assignments, something that is not communicated until shortly before they are due.

My employer has been very supportive during the first 7 months of the course. They allow for time to attend lectures including cost of travel etc. My line manager has also been supportive when it comes to providing work place evidence, discussing the requirements of what has been requested and brain storming as to where this could come from.

The support that has been received generally from the training provider has been good. The course administrator has regularly set up sessions to go through the requirements and have also been on hand should issues arise. Generally the support from lecturers has been good but is dependent on who is delivering the modules; some are more supportive than others.

Although only 7 months into the programme, I feel the skills I have learnt so far through the programme have been very complimentary to my role within my performance. I am able to communicate better within my role / in meetings and whilst undertaking tasks I am actively thinking about the modules I have completed.

There are a number of localised activities that are available at work, whether that be 5 a side football, team nights or bowling nights. There is also a big focus on charity events and community days which include the painting of community centres or visiting elderly people in old people homes.

Yes

Santander is a great company to work for. They are very supportive to the training needs of both new staff and existing staff. Due to the large size of the business, there is great scope to build a career and move into different roles, expanding knowledge and developing skills. The work life balance that Santander is a great excuse for working for the company.

I would advise people to definitely focus on working for Santander. Opportunities for progression are there for people who are hungry and want to succeed. Santander will support any individual who has a desire and can clearly show their hunger to succeed, looking to improve the business and the customer journey.