Deals Associate Review

As a Deals Associate, I have spent a year and a half in the Value Creation & Realisation business unit which focuses on the Value Creation opportunities in the marketplace together with our Transactions team. VC&R helps clients create more value from their deals and delivers the sustained outcomes our clients are looking for. I work in Operational Restructuring within VC&R where I have worked on cost transformation, carve out, cloud migration, change management, and op model transformation projects.

I have learnt how to grow my network, internally and externally, which has provided me with a good foundation in all aspects of deals and crises. I have obtained a wide range of professional experience and gained in-depth knowledge across sectors and clients. This has helped me make more informed career decisions and made me into a more rounded and insightful professional. I have also had the opportunity to develop my business acumen as well as leadership, project management, organisational, time management, presenting, and communication skills.

The programme has provided me with the opportunity to combine learning skills on the job with studying towards a well-respected and useful qualification. During college I am able to build on transferable skills such as time management, organisation and business acumen which are applicable to my day-to-day work. I enjoy the variety of opportunities afforded through my programme and the professional development I have been able to make as a result.

The structure of the programme is not as efficient as it could be. Graduates were supposed to rotate through business units, however, this has not been possible for all and where it has been implemented, the process was cumbersome. The rotational aspect of the programme continues to change, there is a lack of understanding and consistency. College for the ACA has often been away from 'home' cities for many students which creates additional stress.

We take time away from work to take part in college which means we do not have to balance work and studying. Career coaches at work ensure that apprenticeship and career goals align. We have access to mental health professionals to provide support during work and college. There is a dedicated professional qualification team to answer apprenticeship questions.

Whilst in work, there are regular touchpoints with the tuition provider's talent coaches to check up on progress and answer any questions. Tutors are on hand to answer questions throughout the week. Resources are provided in advance and include a workbook as well as past papers, practice questions, and video walkthroughs.

During college I have learnt transferable skills such as time management, organisation and business acumen which are applicable to my day-to-day work. I enjoy the variety of opportunities afforded through my programme and the professional development I have been able to make as a result. The qualification itself is also well valued in my role.

Sports and social events

Yes

- Variety of opportunities to progress professionally - Provides the ability to study towards a professional qualification whilst in full time work - Large national and international presence with good local networks - Teams with wide range of skills and experience

Understand what individual skills and attributes you can bring to the firm to help deliver value to clients