Investment Operations Apprentice Review

My role at M&G is in investment operations within the UFS team and on behalf of the fixed income invoices team, where I ensure invoices are checked and paid within a timely manor. On a day to day basis my role involves building relationships with front office as well as TPA's, resolving any queries regarding payments and invoices, and studying for my IOC.

I have learn't many skills, I have developed my Excel skills as well as my communication skills. I have also gain a more in depth understanding of the finance industry through internal training courses and through the qualification I am studying towards. Within my role I have learn't how to be well organised and time managed.

My role allows me to build relationships with front office as well as TPA's which will help me build my network and help me gain confidence within my role and within the finance industry. This programme also allows me to gain a recognised qualification which will not only give me the knowledge and understanding of the finance industry but it will also allow me to progress myself onto more advanced level qualifications.

After being with the company for 2 months I have a good understanding of the structure of my course as well as what is expected of me. This is due to the ongoing catch ups with my manager, my coach from the training provider and the long term talent team within M&G.

I have had a lot of support from M&G since starting 2 months ago. My whole team is very supportive and inclusive. My team leader and manager have regular catch ups with me to see how I'm getting on and to set objectives and goals to work towards on the programme. I have been allocated a buddy/mentor who has previously undergone the apprenticeship programme and has experience and knowledge of the course. I was also introduced to the current apprentices within my team and M&G where I am able to build relationships.

My training provide have given me a coach who I have monthly catch ups with, where we will discuss my progress, any concerns I may have and to set tasks and objectives for me to work towards. I have been given study materials for my exams and ongoing learning as well as an online platform called Onefile where I am able to track my progress, carry out any tasks my coach has allocated to me and record my evidenced based learning to build my portfolio.

The qualification I am studying towards will and is helping me in my role at M&G as I am building my understanding and knowledge of the finance industry. Through understanding the regulations, products and services the finance industry offer i am able to understand my role a lot better and how my role fits in within the company and industry. The qualification allows me to connect what I have learn't to what I do on a day to day basis.

There are many extra-curricular activities to get involved in at M&G. Every year my team participate in the JP Morgan 5k run, where you can meet new people and network. There are also activities posted on Yammer where people will post social events and classes you can attend. As an apprentice you are also exposed to many networking events throughout the year where you can meet other apprentices within M&G and from other companies.

Yes

I would recommend M&G Investments to a friends because M&G is a very supportive, inclusive and reputable employer. From being at M&G for 2 months as an apprentice I have been given the support as well as the opportunity develop my understanding through M&G's apprenticeship programme and the exposure I have had from a range of different professionals.

A few tips I would give to others who are applying to M&G Investment would be to know who M&G are and what they do as a company. M&G is a great employer and the people here are are very supportive and inclusive, so I would recommend getting in touch with any of the current apprentices at M&G or even a member of the team you have applied for. Don't be afraid to be yourself and know that you are not expected to know everything. The apprenticeship programme is in place for you to learn and develop you knowledge and skill set.