Junior Consultant Review

In my role I am responsible for the management of changes & releases throughout their whole lifecycle for our client. This includes regular client communication, risk management and deployment management. I'm also involved with agile transformation within my team for the account.

In my role I have developed my self-management skills, communication skills (both with colleagues and the client) and risk management skills. I've also expanded massively on my Excel knowledge which is a key skill to have in the majority of business roles.

IBM have a great culture around the Apprentices. We're constantly invited to free training, apprentice meetups and giving back to the community. At work, I'm privileged to be surrounded by very experienced and helpful people who have made my time here very valuable.

For IBM, the programme is structured very well and everyone is given a manager who can help resolve issues during the Apprenticeship. However, it does feel as if the University we attend isn't well structured and they still are getting to grasps with the Degree Apprenticeship.

Currently I have a Early Professionals Manager who supports me throughout my whole apprenticeship with what training to do, what roles to take, building a network etc. I also have two mentors who are helping me to develop my day-to-day skillset and suggest future roles.

At University, we do have access to 1-on-1 tutor meetings every Friday who can help us with any issues around module work. There are different tutors who specialise in different areas such as harvard referencing, research and theory-based learning.

In my role, I personally do not see the benefit from the Business Management degree currently. I believe this will change over the next 2 years. I will say that there is a Self-Managed module which has massively improved my time management skills at work.

We're encouraged to complete giveback activities during our time at the company which involves attending/running career events, assisting at schools or colleges, mentoring other apprentices/interns. We also have various sport teams at each company site which are easy to get involved with.

Yes

IBM is a very good place for you to develop your skillset in the IT industry knowing that you ongoing support throughout the whole duration of being employed there. The culture is great for young people and an excellent place to build a network.

Be yourself, research the company and engage with everyone. Even an Assessment Centre is an excellent chance to start building that network.