Strategy consultant Review

I work within an area of IBM known as iX as a Strategy Consultant. Although, I use that job title reluctantly as I really have the freedom to do many roles. The area of business I work in means we spend time on different projects with different clients, and therefore with each new project you can take on a new role and learn a new skills set. So far I've taken the role of Communications Manager for project with a leading telecommunications provider but my friends have done roles such as Scrum Master, Project Manager, Business Analyst and many more. Day to day my role involves meeting with the client, discussing the current performance of the programme and then undertaking comms responsibilities to drive it forward.

I have definitely learnt a lot! I've learnt new skills specific to my role. but beyond this I've also learnt about what it's really like to work in a big corporate organisation. I've been lucky enough to be in a role where I have a lot of exposure to the client and this has really helped me develop my communication skills. In addition to professional development, I have learnt so much about myself. Needless to say balancing a full time degree and a full time job is not the easiest thing to do, but you learn how to prioritise and manage your time effectively.

I'm on the degree apprenticeship programme and I'm really enjoying it! I love to learn and it's always been important to me to get a degree so this opportunity was perfect for me. What's even better is that the content I learn at University can be applied in my everyday role which really helps me to instil the learnings and feel motivated. I definitely think good time management is essential on this pathway but if you're interested in the subject and you enjoy your role then you can link the two to make life easier.

The programme is well organised, when you start at IBM you're introduced to the company with a 2 week residential induction which allows you to make some friends and get an understanding of the organisation. During your apprenticeship you also attend various other mandatory training to keep you updates with company values, principles and policies. You're also allocated to an 'Early Professional Manager' who is you 'go to' for any questions, queries, advice or support. Having this person to guide you through your start with IBM is fantastic as you know you've always got someone to turn to. They're also very invested in your career and willing to help how they can. There have been a few small hiccups in the programme, but overall I think it is well organised and structured.

IBM has various support systems in place, as mentioned above, you get allocated an EPM who you form a close relationship with, to guide you through your apprenticeship. Having said that there are various other offerings within IBM to support you from your professional career and education, to your health.

Prior to starting with IBM I attended a Russell group University and now I go to Pearsons College London, although the degree is accredited from the University of Kent. Having experienced the support at my previous University, I have been really impressed and grateful for the level of support from Pearsons. Each quarter we get the opportunity to sit down with our EPM and a University representative to discuss how we feel we're doing, our likes and dislikes about the University and how our experience can be improved. The feedback you provide the University is really taken on board and you can see the changes they make which is really encouraging. The University also offers various support options if you're struggling from 1:1 academic study skills sessions to private counselling.

This is my biggest love about Pearsons! I have learnt so many theories, models, principles and phenomenas that come across in my every day work. I was astounded that something I had actually learnt from Uni could actually be applied to my role. With Pearsons you'll never have those moments when you wonder when you'll ever apply algebra or how/when you'll be able to apply your analysis of Romeo and Juliet later in life. The things you learn really are relevant to your business sector! Knowing the things I learn can be applied really motivates me with my degree.

Yes! Every Wednesday of the month IBM holds a social event in a local bar where you can apply your networking skills. I've also just signed up to a team health challenge where we received free fitness trackers (which we get to keep!) in order to incentivise us to work towards a healthier lifestyle.

Yes

If you're looking for a company that will nurture you and invest in your educational and professional development, then look no further. I'm a strong believer in having personal responsibility to make our own success, but I also believe that IBM can provide the opportunities in order to achieve this.

There are many big corporate companies out there, but IBM really is a great company to work for. They love innovators, creative thinkers and people with passion. If you get the opportunity to go to an assessment centre or an interview, be yourself and enjoy the experience. As IBM-ers say, Treasure wild ducks!