Apprentice Commercial Manager Review

My role involves assisting my colleagues with the cost management of the project I am currently working on. I have had wide-reaching exposure to change management, warranties / and insurances, commercial or cost reporting, tracking cost movement as well as contributing to various other reporting elements on a monthly basis. In conjunction to my duties at work, I also attend university 1 day a week.

Yes - the skills i have developed whilst undertaking my apprenticeship have evolved over the last two years, despite remaining at the same project throughout. I have developed existing skills for example relating to the Microsoft suite of products, whilst also gaining exposure to the technicalities of the construction industry, and common practices for cost management.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme offered at Mace. I find that the blended learning approach between workplace experience, university study and an internal training regimen is the right one as it allows not only various opportunities to learn and develop my skills, but also a chance to network with my peers and colleagues.

The programme offered is quite well structured. I feel that Mace are excellent at having an open dialogue with Training Providers, as well as apprentice Line Managers. This ensures that all areas are touched on across the training programme. We receive a timetable each year outlining our schedule for the year.

My employer provides a great deal of support to apprentices, with the HR team regularly speaking to Line Managers and Apprentices, with bi-yearly reviews to discuss progress and any assistance needed. There are various layers of support at Mace, which is easily found and accessible. Most colleagues have been considerate when supporting apprentices and are more than willing to donate knowledge.

Support received from the training provider is available to all students through the usual channels (course directors etc). The training provider have been prompt at responding to emails outlining concern as well as being available via Teams etc to discuss. Despite this, I have not yet met my personal tutor.

My qualification aids in my daily role, with models such as construction technology and materials having an influence on my technical knowledge in the industry. I would prefer that my qualification had a larger emphasis on cost management, measurement and cost planning in the first instance rather than focusing mainly on theory.

Yes. At Mace there are many different 'networks' such as Pride at Mace, Ethnic Diversity and Inclusion Network (EDIN) and others which are available to employees to get involved with. Pre-covid there were quarterly social events at the HQ, as well as local, project based activities which are occasionally arranged.

Yes

I would recommend Mace Group to a friend for many reasons: 1. Effort and determination are recognized not only in compensation but also by directors and the talent team. 2. Large scale projects to be proud of such as the London Eye, The Shard among others. 3. Fantastic Emerging Talent Team who are happy to address any concerns and have created a winning formula for apprentice training.

- Be confident within your interview process, especially when undertaking phone interviews. - Don't be afraid to ask questions. - Do your research on the company, core values, 2026 purpose etc. - Try to appear relaxed and approachable throughout. - Enjoy the application process - Look to make good friends with apprentices at your interview and also if successful at your induction - they will be your colleagues for life!