Cyber Analyst Review

I work for Barclays at their Technology Centre. My role as a Cyber Analyst involves working within the change management team overseeing projects and assessing the security engagement needed before the project is released. An example would be TouchID that our customers will use in the Mobile Banking App. We access in which way this involves risks of breaching data protection laws and how to protect our customers, the company and other stakeholders by making sure these are remediated before release. I use Excel sheets on a regular basis, creating Pivots, Dashboards and other diagrams reporting to my Line Manager on a weekly basis.

During my time with Barclays, I have improved my Excel skills being offered various training opportunities via elearning portals. As this skill was crucial for my job role, I was glad to have been offered this training free of charge. Moreover, I have developed skills in coding Java and JavaScript by attending university once a week, learned how to code and set up a Webpage as well as writing academic reports. Moreover, my employer supported me in acquiring skills about Cloud Computing and the insights of AWS by attending online courses and classes with a tutor.

I truly enjoy this Degree Apprenticeship programme. From day one I felt welcome and supported with my Line Manager, a technical tutor, a Career Coach and the team members around me. What fascinates me is the agile work environment within Barclays which allows flexibility. With breakout areas, hot desks, quiet rooms, open spaces, coffee areas and WiFi connection around every building, there are no limits that restrict me to performing the best I can.

From the recruitment stage up until this point, the Degree Apprenticeship scheme is well organised. Our training provider is Manchester Metropolitan University which I attend once a week for 8 hours, having three main courses plus labs. From the start we were part of the university's induction week, and had enough time to get used to the new environment. At work, I was introduced to my Line Manager, my technical buddy, my apprenticeship buddy, my Career Coach and other team members. I received an Apprenticeship Passport which helps me document every 121 with my Manager and incudes an overview of every mandatory training. Throughout I have a good overview of how the 4 years are going to be. It is clear what is expected, what is available to achieve this and who is there to assist if I need help.

I receive a lot of support from my employer as I have various people to ask, my Line Manger, team members, my technical buddy and a career coach as well as an ELT. An ELT is the one person from university that is the link between university and work. She makes sure I am satisfied at university and work, helps with any issues or question that may arise and makes sure everything is communicated to my employer and university on my behalf.

With mid-term questionnaires asking students to give their feedback as well as generally being open for our questions or concerns, I feel that my training provider is very supportive. As a student representative I have the opportunity to communicate any problems students may have directly with the head of our programme as well as our lecturers which makes it a very open opportunity to bring dieback across. More so, we receive the opportunity to join Webinars and other trainings to support us and help us acquire specific skills needed for our academic performance, such as Critical Writing, Report writing, Presentation skills etc.

Gladly the content offered by my training provider aligns with what is expected at work thus helping me to use what I have acquired and put it into practise. As a Cyber Analyst I needed to learn to use Excel and have coding skills. Aside from my employer offering trainings, I received support at university as well which helped me perform better in my role.

At work there are various ways of getting involved by joining the gym, tennis club, a choir etc. My employer is very supportive of employees getting involved in these to build on teamwork, social skills and health/well-being. We recently had a Mental Health Awareness week in which the entire company was asked to take a walk outside to get fresh air. Health, wellbeing, networking etc. are supported through breakout areas and quiet rooms as well as open spaces around the entire campus.

Yes

I would recommend Barclays to a friend because it is a great opportunity to find yourself, identify your skills and start a multifaceted career. My main reason for choosing this pathway is simple, I’m experiencing the best of both worlds: a university degree and work experience without any tuition fee debts at the end of my journey. As an apprentice for Barclays I have gained a greater knowledge and development by shadowing team members, attending regular trainings and obtaining insight into various activities of other teams. I have had the opportunity to promote apprenticeships by attending career events, visiting schools and being interviewed by the BBC. These are life changing opportunities which were possible because I was chosen by an innovative, world-known employer that believes and invests in my and many other young people’s future. This is worth recommending to everyone.

Be yourself. Barclays is searching for personalities and gladly everyone has their own. It is important to present yourself as you are and be open about it. There are plenty of job roles and work in and it is a fascinating environment. Know your strengths and weaknesses, apply for the assessment day and have a go. Having an open mind about it will make a real difference and you will soon see, that this is an employer that can help you identify hidden talents and skills within you, will support you in every area needed and help you develop to become what you want to be.