Data Analyst Review

My title is Data Analyst, however my day to day role is different, I co manage a Helpdesk. Currently we have merged with another team and have gone through some process reviews, therefore I am using some of this work to complete my university projects and gain valuable leadership experience.

Yes, I am learning more about digital leadership and working in scrum teams, I didn’t know much about the role of a scrum master beforehand or participating in daily stand up meetings. I have also developed on my SQL skills and project management skills via assignments and project work.

I have enjoyed the programme since starting in September. It has been a different experience doing everything remotely, but it has worked well. Some of the work has been quite tough and balancing full time work and studies can be overwhelming at times. However, with good planning it can be achieved.

With the programme being delivered online, it has been structured considerably well and the lecturers have done a good job facilitating this. The only thing I would criticise is, the course is supposed to be part-time over two years, but the work and modules has been crammed in, making it feel just like a full time course.

I have had great support from my line manager with regards to completing the apprenticeship side of things. My team has been fully supportive also if I have needed to collect evidence etc or book some off the job time. I have also incorporated some work projects for my apprenticeship.

I have an assigned skills coach for the apprenticeship side, they have been supportive if I needed to ask any questions. I’ve also had regular check ins with them and reviews. The lecturers for the modules have also been supportive and arranged meetings / sent emails regarding assignments if needed.

I have learnt more about leadership styles which I can apply to my role. My pathway is all about IT strategy and I can apply this to the projects I am working on. Hopefully I can use the new skills learnt to eventually lead to a new role or promotion.

Not at the moment or that I’m aware of, I think this would be down to the current pandemic situation, plus we have a travel ban at work. There is online volunteering opportunities which could possibly count, I have participated in mentoring with Brightside recently, which was a good experience.

Yes

I think Lloyds Banking Group is a good place to work. It has a lot of opportunities for starter careers with various apprenticeships and graduate schemes. I originally started on a graduate scheme after I finished my undergraduate. 6 years on and I’m now completing a masters degree apprenticeship.

Do a little research into Lloyds Banking Group, in interviews it always helps to know some background information when asked why you want to work there. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions, even if you think of something later, you can always email it over for a reply.