Cyber Development Operations Lead Review

My role consists of managing the Service Management of my team. I ensure we're compliant with Incidents, Changes and Problems as per ITIL standards. Furthermore, my role is to streamline processes and identify areas where we can improve operational efficiency so the engineers in my team can focus on what really matters.

I have learnt and was able to focus on my leadership skills. This included learning about how to get the best out of the team and the different methodologies that can be adopted to empower teams and help business transformation. In addition to this, I have learnt the importance of reflection and making time to develop myself.

I think the programme did really well at bringing together all types of people from different backgrounds and organisations. This meant the throughout the programme the course was enriched with different opinions, experiences and added to the overall learning experience. It also had a nice balance of technical and leadership giving people a more well rounded programme to follow.,

Manchester Met Uni did a great job from the beginning at structuring the course. Particularly as we was still coming out of lockdown when I first started a lot of the course was done remotely but this did not impact the delivery or learning achieved. It was very well structured leaving plenty of time for the assignments.

My employer allowed me to spend 20% of my time focussing on uni assignments and other pieces that related to my professional development. I was lucky enough to not need direct support from my employer as most issues was addressed by the university provider. However, my employer was great at giving me the time to complete the course.

When starting the degree apprenticeship you are assigned a skills coach. This person is your point of contact so if you have any concerns with the course structure, assignments or personal issues these coaches are really supportive and can direct you to the support needed. I personally never needed to rely on the skills coaches, but they made themselves available and known to us.

On the back of my MSc degree I was awarded a promotion which allowed me to put my leadership skills in to practice and has given me the opportunity to develop these further. I'm not sure I would have been able to do this role and be promoted as quickly if it wasn't for the MSc degree apprenticeship.

Yes, my employer offers a vast amount of extra-curricular activities, from running clubs to volunteering, to being an advocate for different things. Lloyds Banking Group is truly an inclusive organisation that strives on making itself a place where everyone can bring their true and best selves to work. I would recommend LBG as a place to work.

Yes

I believe Lloyds Banking Group is one of the best places to work in the UK. There is extensive opportunities internally to help people personally and professionally. Its truly a place where careers can be made and also new opportunities can be found. Additionally there is a vast amount of training courses and sources available will mean people can continue their learning regardless, Lloyds Banking Group truly believe in investing in people. Lastly, there is a huge commitment about sustainability and lots of opportunities arising to help the world!

Firstly and most importantly, always be yourself. Its okay not to fully know your career path, but definitely have a think about what motivates and interests you and try find a corresponding role or apprenticeship which can bring that to life. I would recommend looking online for Lloyds Banking Group Apprenticeships as there is a plethora of information which will be beneficial.