Service Manager Review

I'm a Service Manager for Siemens Technical field services deparment, control engineering after sales and system support. My main duty is thr management and business development for the 1st to 3rd line 24/7 telephone Helpdesk Maintenance facility, remote access and emergency callout. I have seventeen direct reports ranging from Supervisor, Senior Engineer, Engineer, Assistant Engineer and Contractors.

Yes, I found the course helps hone existing skills and makes you more reflective to how you present your work. In addition, working with lecturers and support staff has further developed communications skills because it is a different style that is required for acemedic presentation. Academic report writing and referencing research material has been a completely new skill I'm continuing to develop.

It's engaging and makes you look at how you currently work and challenge the current normd. Very enjoyable but you have to put the work in otherwise it can be overwhelming. It's been really interesting as a mature student to get back into education and interact with student colleagues of all ages. I must admit it's been very welcoming and I don't feel alienated at all, if anything more welcome.

Very well, clearly defined lectures and prior to contact days, we are informed of the work schedule and expectations. Mentors are available to review work and academic support has been very efficient and effective. Support services through the college are made available immediately with resources also available for other learning campuses.

They are supportive especially my mentors who conduct separate reviews to the apprenticeship which are backed up by notes. They take time out and always ask how it's going which make a a difference when you're working and in education at the same time. My line manager also makes a point of asking how I'm getting on and reading my course work.

Good contact and support available when required. Scheduled visits are constructive providing direction as well pointing out how to improve your portfolio of work. Even when you make a last minute call to drop in for advice they accomodate you as they know sometimes you just need that little bit more support or guidance.

It provide a more indepth view of current practices and latest techniques whilst challenging you to review your needs from them. I find that I'm more considered in my decisions and look at organising my schedule to be more efficient by ensuring I plan work, learning and rest time.

Yes, there are groups around who setup sports events, football cycling. I personally enjoy archery and have involved other members to join. There are a lot of different initiatives with EDI to be involved in as well which are conduct over lunchtime so that everyone can get involved. The business also encourages volunteering and provides everyone with two days per year to undertake activites that support the local community, wildlife or a charitable organisation.

Yes

Well structured approach to work and your career providing excellent opportunities to progress your career. They encourage you to excel and be the best kind of you without pressuring you. I'm a mature apprentice now and originally started on an apprenticeship at 16, where I've worked my way through the organisation. The apprenticeship is an unbelievably good way for people to learn skills and develop as an individual whilst being supported through your education with no worries about a massive debt to pay off. I would recommend an apprenticeship as being the primary route because you learn so much more than just being in an academic institute.

Keep your options open as it's a big organisation and your expectations change over time. Look to find opportunities and expand your experiences. Don't be afraid to engage management and ask for support as they like to help develop people eventhough they might seem distracted or busy. Challenge yourself, don't wait to be asked, push the envelope and lead, it's your life so really go for it and when you're young it's the best time to learn.