Change Control Executive Review

My role involves investigating the new report files of projects allocated to me, determining the scale of the Holiday Change and producing briefs for our retail teams and contact centres, as well as actioning notifications to our customers. As part of the investigation process I liaise with our overseas teams to fully understand the root of the problem, and with many internal teams to ensure we find the right solutions for our customers.

I have learnt new skills pertaining to the use of specific systems used in my new role. I have also improved and developed existing skills involving communication, both formally and interpersonally. Additionally I have developed my research skills and also my public speaking and presentation skills as they are a crucial part of my new role.

I enjoy the programme very much. Personally, the chance to work and gain practical experience whilst I learn, and apply that experience to my learning (and vice-versa), is a fantastic opportunity. My role is multi-faceted and very interesting, and my team is supportive of my participation in the programme and furthering my development.

I am part of the first cohort of the Degree Apprenticeship programme at my company. The business is dedicated to supporting the programme and I can't fault the intention to see it succeed but as one might expect there have been teething problems. We have little information on the continued structure of the programme moving forward.

My line manager is incredibly supportive and goes out of her way to provide me with development opportunities, both directly relevant to my academic studies but also in the workplace - for instance I am working towards gaining additional continuous improvement qualifications, and have been offered the opportunity to shadow members of adjacent departments to gain broader business knowledge.

Our training provider permits communication via email if we have questions concerning our assignments in between the weeks we spent at university. There are plenty of materials and resources provided to work and learn from and we are encouraged to utilise university facilities and training seminars to further our academic progression.

At this point in time we are only just over half a year in to the programme and as of yet there has not been a hugely significant correlation between the theory we learn with our training provider and the role that I am in. However, we are constantly encouraged to try and connect our studied theory with its 'Business Application'.

There are many extra curricular options. There is a knitting club of which I am a member, walking groups, a running club, a choir (particularly active around and in the run up to Christmas). There are hackathons (although these generally are IT only) and the Commercial department within which my role lies hosts a networking/social event on the final Friday afternoon of a month which everyone is free to attend

Yes

I have found the culture of the business to be a really positive environment in which to grow and develop both professionally and personally. The team I work with are all supportive, hard working individuals and whilst we work hard we also have lots of fun. I would recommend it based solely on the fact that I enjoy my work and my programme and I feel like the business provides many opportunities that are available to anyone to try for.

Focus on the company values. They are the cornerstone of the business' mission statement and are central tenets around which application questions are designed. Be passionate about what we do and interested in personal development and know that we are focused on putting the customer's wellbeing at the forefront of our considerations.