Project Manager Review

Since completing my modern apprenticeship in April last year, I have begun to gradually manage more projects myself within the IT domain. This includes work to merge Standard Life with Aberdeen Assets, where we must bring the systems/applications from both business under the one roof. I manage timelines and budgets to ensure resources are completing work on time in order to complete the overall project and meet the deadlines.

Whilst completing a diploma on my modern apprenticeship and now undertaking a degree on my graduate apprenticeship, I have managed to relate my studies to the work I am learning on a day to day basis in my current role. I have learned valuable skills in communication and time management whilst learning the fundamentals of budgeting through my university degree also.

I thoroughly enjoyed the apprenticeship programme. With rotating between 6 different teams in 2 years, I was able to meet new people and gain an understanding for their role in the business and what they do on a day to day basis. It allowed me to create connections I can keep throughout my career whilst allowing me to find the department and role I could see a career in.

Even with the graduate apprenticeship being a fairly new programme at Robert Gordon's University, I have found the structure and organisation very effective as we are aware of deadlines and assessment due dates well in advance. The organisation of the modern apprenticeship in ASI is very effective as you are moved around the teams and most of the time you are able to go to a new team if this is one that interests you.

My employer supports me through my whole graduate apprenticeship. I am entitled to five days of study leave a year to take for exams or assessment due dates to take. We are also given time out of our day for studying if needed and we are supported to do this by our line managers and mentors.

We receive good support from the university throughout the degree as they understand that we are studying from a distance whilst carrying out our day jobs. The module coordinators are always available over email or phone to assist with any questions we may have.

I believe the degree relates very effectively to my job role, which I feel makes my learning easier as it is similar to what I am doing on a day to day basis. This IT management for business degree will let me learn the fundamentals of management whilst working day to day.

There are a number of social events that you are able to get involved with In your teams/departments. Throughout the apprentice program you can go along to a number of events, including the company summer BBQ and Christmas night outs. We are also allocated two volunteering days a year that we can use to do a day of fundraising for a charity.

Yes

I have really enjoyed my time at Standard Life Aberdeen so far as the staff and opportunities available are brilliant. The company prioritises in looking after their staff and creating a world class working environment to help me continue with my learning and career.

I would suggest that if you are to go on to the apprentice scheme don't be scared to ask questions. This will be your key to learning about the business more and understanding the jobs that people are doing day to day. You should tie this in with being motivated to learn and do well, and the staff will be willing to help you and increase your knowledge.