Cyber Security Analyst Review

Due to confidentiality I can’t disclose in detail what my role fully involves. However, it involved looking after the bank from a cyber security perspective. This meant monitoring and actively working to defend against external threats. Furthermore, it also involved looking at improving internal processes through automation and cloud environments

Yes I have learnt a plethora of new skills, and developed many existing skills. At a high-level, some of the key skills I improved was: Communicating in a variety of situations. Working under pressure. Deep technical and analytical skills to help solve problems. Leadership capabilities. Working independently and as part of groups. Organisation and planning skills.

I thought the programme was really enjoyable. The university catered for everyone’s needs, ensuring the content was reviewed constantly and delivered at a level where everyone could follow and understand. This made managing a degree on top of a full time job bare-able and fun. In addition to this, the content often related directly to our roles, so any new skills could be put in to practice immediately.

I thought the programme was well structured. It had been carefully planned, and I personally felt it worked well. When I entered my specialism unit (Cyber Security), we was essentially ‘path finders’ as the units had never been taught or assessments completed before. This sometimes put students under additional pressure when the workloads was miss-judged. That said, the university have always been quick to rectify this for future years, and support existing students to achieve their deserved grade.

With regards to the central apprenticeship team my cohort received very little support or contact from them once enrolled on to the degree apprenticeship. However, individual colleagues and managers were very supportive of the course and often put themselves out to help where possible. I believe this is where the real support came from.

The university went above and beyond to support apprentices throughout their studies. Each student had access to the full universities support network. We was often encouraged to go on additional summer courses to improve our academic skills. Furthermore, each student had a skills coach who regularly checked in with them to ensure they was coping ok and was there if any additional support was required.

I think the university degree has been instrumental in where I am today. I have received two promotions since starting the degree. I am regularly complimented by my senior manager on my approach and skills that I have gained from university. I am actively trying to share these with the rest of my team.

Due to writing this review during the current pandemic, there is no extra social activities. That said, there is a great deal of groups and clubs virtually that can be joined. Anything from Mental Health advocates, Morning Yoga classes, Training Champions etc. Once the pandemic is over, I suspect all social activities and conferences will resume.

Yes

I think Lloyd’s Banking Group (LBG) is a special employer for a variety of reasons. Equality and Diversity is a huge factor that makes up LBG, there is a plethora of support networks where people can be supported and grow. LBG also focus heavily of personal and professional development, and actively encourage colleagues to participate in courses or apprenticeships to better themselves. Lastly, the career options within LBG is extensive and is available to all sorts of people regardless of skills or background.

For anyone wishing to join Lloyd’s Banking Group, I would suggest applying with a positive mindset. There is a load of guides and documentation on Lloyd’s Banking Groups career website that can give some really useful tips and tricks to standout. It also outlines the opportunities and available ways to become and LBG employee. Most importantly, be yourself.