Junior Project Manager Review

My role as a junior project manager is to support a senior project manager in their day to day roles. These tasks include risk management, stakeholder management, scoping, impact assessments, estimation, liaising with other teams to deliver project on time and to budget. I usually have a few projects on the go at once, one being a long term one and the other more short term.

I have learnt loads of new skills and developed existing ones. These include communication through the range of people I now have to speak to about a variety of tasks and issues. Some more technical skills like MS Project, JIRA. How to scope up new work that no-one has done before.

Overall I enjoyed my degree apprenticeship. It was hard work but worth it in the end. The skills I gained by working alongside my studies were invaluable. The modules set out at the university were clear and related mostly to my job or at least wider as an IT consultant.

It was clear that this program has been running for a while, it's slick and have clear communication channels. There's a nice community built around the programme both at university and work. At times there are areas that are unclear like assignments and dates moving but on the whole it's well structured.

My employer made sure I had a mentor who I could speak to at any point during the programme. Additionally both my manager and director understood the pressures on me and were understanding and always open to have a chat. At times my colleagues forgot that I wasn't working full time which at times was unhelpful.

The University of Winchester were relatively helpful in providing support to students. Tutors were always willing to answer questions, before, after seminars and over email with quick responses. They often took on board our requests for other helpful information we would like, e.g. summaries of theories we had covered in class

I think it gives me a solid base of information to rely on as an IT consultant; this is helpful when encountering topics at work that I hadn't before. I don't think it teaches the specific for my role but I can get this through on the job training or professional qualifications.

I'm part of the sports and social club and regularly attend events (approximately once a month) these include, axe throwing, wine tasting, theatre, sound healing, nails. I am also part of the womens network at CGI which gives a platform to discuss topics and organises events for example around international womens day.

Yes

CGI has a great culture and environment that separates itself from other companies in the tech industry. There is a clear focus on us as members and supporting us to achieve our best and what we need to reach that. There's plenty of support in place, plenty of opportunities and chances to push yourself out your comfort zone.

I would say focus on how your values align to CGIs. If it's close you know it is the right place for you. Focus on your skills and achievements and what you bring to the table. Ensure that a degree apprenticeship is the right path for you - it is hard work!