Business Analyst Review

I work in Direct to Consumer (DTC) where brands within Unilever would like to create a transnational site to sell their products directly to their customers. In my role I gather requirements from the brand and turn these requirements into user stories which I upload to JIRA for the development team to work through in a series of sprints.

In my role I have developed on my communication skills and gained more confidence when connecting with various brands and different people outside of my wider team. I've learnt how to use agile methods such as creating user stories. Also, I've learnt elements of project management and how to take control of an ongoing project.

I enjoy working within my team and developing skills that relate to my apprenticeship programme, it provides opportunity to learnt and develop skills as a business analyst. However, I feel like there could be more support from Arch Apprentices relating to the specific content needed to include into my project work and exams practice.

I feel my programme is organised to an extent. The work is divided up into structured sections, however I think the timings need to be worked on for exams and time given for writing up projects. I would have liked to have specific deadline for each project write ups so I know I am on track and more support for the training sessions relating to my exams.

Unilever provides a good level of support. I have a supportive line manager who provides opportunities to help develop my skills and makes sure I understand the work I am given. I feel I am challenged enough during my work and put out of my comfort zone to help me do well in my apprenticeship.

I receive a fair amount of support. I have monthly catch ups with my learning and development coach who reviews my projects to make sure I am on track for achieving my qualification. However, I feel like I am less supported in the training sessions to pass the exams related to my apprenticeship.

My qualification helps me perform well in my role. I have learnt about topics within my training sessions that has helped me to understand certain aspects of my role better. I was asked to purchase a text book winch has also helped me to understand more about becoming a Business Analyst.

There are a number of conferences held within Unilever that I find really inspiring to listen to and learn about. There are apprentice meet ups that are held inside and outside of work which are good to get to know the other apprentices within Unilever and share our experiences with each other.

Yes

I believe Unilever is well organised company that allows apprentices to develop and learn skills to a high standard in such a small amount of time. There are many opportunities available for apprentices to get involved in and make the most of their time in Unilever. There is also a good community of people who can help support you in your apprenticeship.

Get to know people within your team and teams who work closely with yours to get an understanding of the people you may be working with. Ask questions on anything you don't understand and make a note of any useful information. Talk to previous or current apprentices to get any advice on the apprenticeship.