Diversity & Inclusion Manager Review

Day to day I work with our employees who represent our different Diversity & Inclusion networks on projects and initiatives that will help Post Office become a more inclusive place for everyone to work. One of the things I'm working on at the minute is getting Post Office represented at LGBT+ Pride events across the UK this summer which is really exciting.

Through my apprenticeship I've gained a much broader knowledge of the wider HR function. I'm much more confident demonstrating these skills in my role now as I feel I have the right knowledge to back it up. I know a lot more about the employee relations element of HR which I didn't before, for example things like managing grievances and disciplinary.

I really enjoy the programme - the workshops I've attended give me a really good change to meet with other people from different businesses. They're also a great chance to learn new skills and gain new ideas for things we could do differently here at Post Office. The tutors have been great too!

Very well organised - we have great support from the Apprenticeships team in our business who are on hand to support with any issues we might have. The apprenticeship training provider structures the programme well too and it feels clear what we need to achieve and by when. We also have regular calls with the training provider who check in on our progress which is helpful.

Our Apprenticeships team are always on hand to provide support when it's needed. They offer regular catch ups for apprentices to raise any issues or concerns. We also have our own day to day line managers who carry out regular 1:1s which are a chance to discuss how we're getting on in the day job. As well as this, there's a good network of apprentices and graduates in the business to go to for more informal support/socialising.

I feel the training provider provides the right level of support - providing clear guidance on what's expected of us and also regular calls to check in on our progress. The workshops I've attended have been a really good mix of providing information but also giving us as a group the chance to discuss and explore the topics in more detail together.

I definitely think that the qualification I'm studying towards is helping me in my role. Whereas before, I felt that I had quite a narrow view of the wider HR function (aligned mainly to the role I was doing) now I think I have a much greater knowledge of the whole function and have developed the skills I need to be able to work outside of my immediate area - which is ultimately my aim.

There are loads of opportunities to get involved in things at work outside of my normal day job. As a team, we occasionally socialise together outside of work and always mark special occasions with a team lunch or dinner. There are opportunities for apprentices to get involved in wider business events and networking groups - for example, taking part in our Diversity & Inclusion network events, our Engagement Champion groups which are really great for getting to know other people across the business and get an understanding of what's going on at all levels.

Yes

I think we have a really great working culture at Post Office - where everyone is valued for their unique contribution. I think it's a great place to start your career too - senior leaders and managers love to hear what apprentices in particular have to say - their ideas and experiences which has meant that apprentices and graduates have been involved in lots of exciting projects across the business.

Don't be afraid to be yourself - at Post Office we really value the diversity of our people and the experiences they can bring to the business. I think it's important to be clear on why you want to work here - do a bit of research about the business first and see if it aligns to what you want from an employer.