Data Analyst Review

AstraZeneca provides rotational opportunities for Information Technology Apprentices. We move into new roles every 8 months to get a wide understanding of the business and how it operates. Currently my role is a Data Analyst role that requires me to work on various projects across IT providing data insights and ensuring data is FAIR.

When joining AstraZeneca, I was stronger in softer skills - communication, presenting, team working etc. As a part of AstraZeneca, I have built on these skills tremendously by presenting in front of senior stakeholders and holding large team meetings. When it comes to more technical skills, I have gained a wide variety, completing certifications in Agile Methodologies and data management.

I find the programme incredibly enjoyable. We get a mixture of meaningful work to do day to day alongside extra curricular activities such as Apprentice related events and charity related events. We also have great opportunities to network with our wider apprentice group (apprentices who are not on the IT scheme but still work for AZ.) This is really helpful to get a good understanding of what work other areas of AZ carry out.

The programme is very well organised. We have specialised early talent groups that support IT apprentices from a professional development and programme perspective. We also work closely with Manchester Met Uni and the North Eastern University to ensure there is a strong educational benefit to our programme too. The balance of both these things is very highly supported by the programme structure.

Support received from my employer goes above and beyond. As mentioned previously, we have multiple support networks in place to ensure IT Apprentices are supported at every level of the business. A few of our networks are the buddy system, the mentoring system, the IT early talent team, the early talent working group and the UK Apprenticeship team.

I find Manchester Metropolitan University to be a great education provider. They have regular check ins with us to make sure we are progressing with out studies. The lecturers are generally very high quality and have provided me with a high level of support when completing my assignments. They are very understanding as a provider when it comes to work commitments and this makes balancing work and university very stress free.

So far there have been 2 parts of the university degree that have related directly to my role. These units have been great as you can take it back to the workplace to practise the skills you have learnt an apply them in a professional environment. The other units I have had to complete were not related to my role but some of them were still useful when it comes to the workplace.

As mentioned previously, AstraZeneca has many extra curricular activates that apprentice are actively encouraged to be a part of. A few are supporting charities with fundraising or doing volunteering days. Networking with other apprentices and organising events. There are also groups that play football at the facilities on site and also other sports and events to participate in.

Yes

So far, AstraZeneca has provided me with an excellent degree apprenticeship journey. When I talk to friends at university who work for other companies, I really see the value of AstraZeneca's programme. The rotational opportunity is not common, but yet an excellent way of exploring a wide variety of roles/opportunities available in a professional IT environment.

When coming to apply, the first thing is to do plenty of research and preparation. The research I would suggest to look at AstraZeneca's company values and also some of their more recent drug discoveries. It is important for employees joining the company to have an interest in the pharmaceutical world and bringing value to patients and supporting patients.