Assistant Commercial Manager Review

My role involves managing the monthly valuation process both upstream and downstream (reviewing subcontractor applications and submitting applications to our client) Approving supplier payments for goods delivered to site Pricing variations for additional works carried out on site Arranging meetings to review subcontractor accounts with their QS's

- My communication skills have significantly improved on the project through more interaction with other parties on the project - "Big picture thinking" is a skill I have improved a lot - My technical knowledge has advanced a lot as I understand more about how all the services are constructed

I have found it immensely satisfying becoming an integral part of my project team and taking responsibility for my own elements of work. This has given me the confidence to take on more challenges and increase my involvement. I have become a crucial part of my team which makes me proud of how I have developed. Having a lot of other apprentices on the programme also makes it more of a more enjoyable experience as you have a support network to progress through the apprenticeship with. It exceeds my expectations as I am more valued as an employee than first anticipated despite working for a big company

My programme is well structured in that we have scheduled out training sessions over the year and reviews with members from the programme leaders. However these could be more regular than every 6 months. There are plenty of contacts in place to offer us any support we need throughout our apprenticeship. The mentoring system provides us with a support network of other apprentices to utilize whenever we need help or advice with our work.

We receive a large amount of support from our Apprenticeship Programme team. They are always available for a call or meeting whenever I need it to discuss any concerns I have. I have a meeting with them every 6 months to discuss progress and raise any issues or successes.

LSBU have generally been quite poor when dealing with my issues with Uni work and their organisation in issuing out information has been problematic in some cases. i.e. late issue of crucial information to assist with coursework/exams.

My modules studied so far have not really assisted with my day to day role as it is taught from a different perspective to what I operate in. However I do feel that my understanding of the industry and my profession is increasing and i ma building upon my base theory knowledge of quantity surveying.

We have opportunities every year to carry out voluntary work with the Mace Foundation and help out the local community. At project level we have had various sporting clubs/activities in place such as a project running/cycling club on a platform called "Strava"

Yes

They are a fantastic company to begin your career in construction as there is a great support network provided by the Emerging Talent team and plenty of avenues to increase your experience/exposure. Very quickly you are welcomed into your project team and given the opportunities to develop in your role.

I would suggest initially showing as much interest in the role you are applying to as you can, via previous work experience etc. Showing interest in Mace as a company via looking up projects completed them and mentioning in your interviews/assessment days. Before the assessment days, I would be sure to look up the qualities associated with the role you are applying to and make sure you clearly display them on the day to show the assessors that you are suited to it. Once onboard I would stress the importance of making as many connections as possible to increase your support bubble and build foundations for future relationships which may be very useful.