Business Analyst Review

Currently I am a business analyst for a data analytics team, my day to day tasks include, requirement gathering, ad hoc data analysis and assisting with the predictive analytics team. I have started helping with the data preparation and cleansing and have also starting learning how to make the predictive models.

I have become proficient with Python and have started learning R. I am also learning more about the data science techniques and modelling. I have been able to develop my documentation skills by learning how to document Data based projects. I have also learnt some basic SQL, and I am working on improving this.

For the most part it's been enjoyable learning the new skills and stretching myself. I have found the datacamp platform really useful for learning the languages. The actual in class courses have been mixed, whilst I enjoyed the content for the data science course, it did feel a little rushed.

To begin with the organisation and structure was pretty poor. We did not get the pre-reading for the courses until very late. This has improved now we have a new mentor. There isn't much structure apart from the project and course dead lines and ensuring that you get 8hrs a week on learning.

My employer gives me a lot of support and always allows me time to work on projects and off the job training. As my role is not data analysis on a day to day basis, I have to juggle my work load to make time for the more data analytics based tasks, but my employer helps me to do this.

The training provider has not been the best, as I've mentioned previously, the pre course reading has arrived late and they didn't put enough emphasis on the use of the book for KM1 Data science course. This in the classroom was very heavy going and needed a really solid foundation before doing the course.

The training on the qualification has provided me with more knowledge which has allowed me to expand my role and take part in the more data science related tasks. It also helps me understand what the team is trying to do so that I can better liaise with the team and the business users.

There are lots of sporting and social activities, there are parties, exercise classes, team drinks, community days. There is usually something happening on a monthly basis. There's also mental health and wellbeing classes such as meditation and destress sessions. These usually occur during lunchtimes so that you can attend.

Yes

Overall it's a good company to work for, they provide a decent level of benefits and can be fairly flexible with working. The best thing about Pret is that they allow you to grow and provide you with training to assist your career development rather than just training you for specific reasons.

Interviews are fairly straight forward, it's good to bring examples or prepare examples on what you can do or have done. Be enthusiastic and friendly, there is a very good culture here and it's important that the fit is right for the company and for you. When you work here, they provide lunch which is great.