Head of Digital Review

In my role I oversee a department of 60 digital experts from product ownership, content & SEO, UI and UX design and analytics. We deliver both strategic programmes that enable customers to buy, service and claims online as well as day-to-day improvements that support us in delivering our business growth ambitions.

Through my apprenticeship, I've learned a whole new side to leadership. The coaching programme has allowed me to develop my style to be less directive and more supportive, creating a culture of thinking and fostering the talent of each individual in the team. As a bonus I've also developed more confidence in providing feedback.

The programme as a whole has been very enjoyable, more from the subject matter and the growth I feel I am achieving. It's been a long time since I've been in formal education and I didn't enjoy it last time round, but this experience has shown me how much I've missed the structure of learning.

The programme was relatively new and I think as a result could have been better structured. I would like more time in the classroom with my fellow students and far more observation time, all of that said my coach mentor on the programme has been inspiring and provided clear structure and support throughout.

My employee has been great in terms of giving me the time to complete the apprenticeship. I have never been made to feel bad for taking time out to study and my days have been protected throughout. That said, there are no specialist coaches in the HR function and I think were there I would have had greater support.

I have received a good amount of support from my coach mentor and we have a regular catch-up every 6 weeks. I feel there is very limited tutor time, for example, bar a 2-day workshop and one 2 hour training session I haven't had any sessions for ca 4 months.

100%. This is without doubt the best leadership training I've had. Yes, you get company training all the time around key leadership skills and HR policies etc, but it is rare to spend this amount of time focusing on a single soft skill. I can already see the benefit it is having to my own role but also to the role of others around me.

In relation to the apprenticeship itself not really, although I have had a few online meetings with other students. Outside of the apprenticeship there are always opportunities to get involved in social activities, volunteering days, and professional networking events, covid aside. Recently I have spoken at an industry event and we have also held a couple of department socials.

Yes

I think they have shown a huge amount of care and personal accountability for their employees during covid. For me personally, they have always held me in positive regard and they have helped me to develop my own strengths to be able to adapt and utilise them in a variety of situations. I'm respected and appreciated for what I bring.

If you've not worked in financial services before you may think the company aren't interested in you given how long the recruitment process can take, that isn't the case, our financial checks take time, so bare with us because we do want your talent! Once you're in the door you can expect a truly warm welcome.