Change Planner Review

My role is an entry level project manager role. I manage the implementation of change within the B&Q store estate. This involves ordering equipment, organising schedules, creating implementation packs managing budgets and communicating with stakeholders across the business. It is a busy role but an enjoyable and varied one which I really enjoy.

I have learned lots about project management. Things such as stakeholder management, how to create and manage budgets and costs, working with and managing 3rd party agency workers. I have learned that communication is key to delivering projects and this has helped me to identify, understand and mitigate risks during the project life cycle.

The programme was very enjoyable. It allowed me to get involved with lots of elements of project management that I hadn't been exposed to previously. This gave me a wider knowledge of how to manage bigger projects which will help me in my future career. I also got to meet new people across the business that I hadn't worked with previously.

My programme was not particularly organised at the start and then got less organised and structured over the covid period. However after the covid period I got a new tutor who brought the programme back to life and gave me the encouragement that I needed to get everything completed. I am was happy with the structure at the end of the programme.

My employer was supportive and I was able to take some time most weeks to work on my apprenticeship. I did however need to do a lot of work in my own time to get everything completed. My workplace allowed me to get in touch with lots of people across the business which helped me feel supported.

I didn't receive much support for the first half of the course and during the covid period. This did improve after covid when a new tutor was assigned to the course. She was very supportive and encouraging. She was always available to assist with any questions I had which made my experience more enjoyable.

This course has really helped me to perform better in my role. I have learned about pure project management which I have been able to apply to my day to day job role. I have also been able to make suggestions on current processes to support the business do things in better ways with my new knowledge.

There are various social initiatives to get involved in. Things such as sports clubs, social evenings with work friends and regular networking events with everyone involved in each function within the organisation. The Christmas party is also always very well planned with great attendance from colleagues across the business which is a great way to meet people that I don't work with directly every day.

Yes

B&Q is an enjoyable place to work. There is a strong focus on employing people who have good values which has resulted in lots of like minded individuals working together in a happy and fun environment. Everyone is supportive and the benefits are great including pension, bupa, sharesave and a discretionary annual bonus scheme.

Get to know the B&Q stores. Spend some time shopping in stores prior to applying so you know what products and services are on offer. Try to speak to some store colleagues and ask questions about the company to understand what B&Q are focussing on at the time. Be prepared to work hard but be part of a very supportive network of people!