Cyber Security Strategist Review

My current responsibilities include, maintenance and the administration of AstraZeneca's Cloud Security Posture Management Tool, coordination of the monthly Cyber Security Cloud Governance Forum, running the Kanban progress update meetings and supporting to team with documentation for some of the Cyber Security Related applications such as User requirements Specification, Solution Blueprint etc.

Since joining the Cyber Security team, I have expanded my knowledge on Cloud Security and AWS cloud services and obtained several certificates related to AWS Cloud and SAFe Agile. I now have a better understanding of Cyber Security, what tools and documentations are available within the company to strengthen the company's security posture

I love the fact that you gain a IT degree while you are working. By the time I graduate I will have 4 years work experience along with my degree which I believe will give me a kick start to my career. You also get to practise what you learn which is amazing.

It is very well structured, we have a dedicated day for university where we have time to study/complete our assignments. We also have 4 pathways to choose at university from year 2. At AstraZeneca, we are given the freedom to choose what we truly enjoy and also given the opportunity to rotate in different departments before making our final decision.

We are given mentors and buddies when we start our on the apprenticeship programme. We can discuss career opportunities with our mentor and discuss any concerns questions we may have with our buddies. Our buddies are older apprentices so they have been through the same experience and give us plenty of support and advise.

We are given plenty of support from the education provider. I was particularly impressed how well they managed to ensure we has continuous support during Covid-19 locked down. We are given plenty of support at work as well, line managers are very supportive of their apprentices and they ensure we are given time to focus on our assignments.

At the beginning of the programme I had very little knowledge around the information technology. In such a short time, I learn how to program, how to design a webpage and also gained skills around information systems. Now that I am at the end of the programme, I feel more confident in my knowledge and abilities.

During Covid -19 many activities involved socialising with others were cancelled or were switched to remote activities where possible however we are always encouraged to take part in charity and STEM events to improve our network and presentation skills. There are plenty of events and activities for apprentices to join.

Yes

I think it is an amazing company to work for. They truly believe in diversity and have a great work culture. I am an older apprentice with two young children and wanted a career change in IT. As long as you have a passion for science and technology, you are given the same opportunity as everyone.

Show that you are passionate about science and technology (in my case). Demonstrate that you understand their value and that you have a flexible attitude. You don't necessary need prior knowledge in the area that you are applying for but it is important that you can work well with others and are a team player.