Data Scientist Review

My role as a data scientist consists of a variety of tasks. This includes manipulating and transforming data, creating models using machine learning and generally improving processes programmed in python. As I work within the insurance section there is a focus on risk and pricing for a our products. I also help create reports on our earnings and claims amounts.

Since starting my job I have improved my skill in programming in python as well as improving my report writing skills. As part of my apprenticeship I have become far more familiar with the insurance industry. I have learnt about general insurance business practices as well as underwriting processes.

The programme is comprised of two parts. The first part is the Chartered Institute of Insurers Level 3 qualification. As part of this qualification, I have to study and complete exams. This part has been quite helpful for improving my knowledge within the sector. The second part is general apprenticeship work. This part has been less interesting and less helpful overall, but takes up more of my time.

To start with, the programme was quite poorly structured. We had multiple instructors leave us one after the other, and our workshops webinars were delayed. Since sorting those initial issues, the programme has been much better.

I receive a reasonable amount of support from my employer. They are open to the fact that I have to spend 8 working hours a week on the apprenticeship. They are also fine with the fact that I occasionally have an exam that clashes with work hours and allow me to take it.

I receive a reasonable amount of support from my trainer. However, I feel like the advice they give could be a bit more robust than it is now.

I feel that the knowledge I have gained through the qualification so far has really help me get a better understanding of the insurance industry and its intricacies. There were many aspects of general knowledge about things like perils and product lines that I did not know before doing the qualification.

I am not involved in any extra curricular activities at my workplace. Although I will say the options outside training and work skill improvement are rather limited. We are allowed to schedule days off in order to take part in charity sponsored events, but other than that, there does not seem to be much else.

Yes

I feel that Direct Line is a great workplace for anyone interested in the insurance industry. The work culture is good, and at least personally I have felt that the colleagues there are great. There is also a wide variety of roles to choose from within the company, so it would be a good place to join for many reasons.

I would recommend being generally knowledgeable about the role you wish to join before starting. Even if it is just a quick reminder of the basics, it will still be useful. The interview process is straight forward and they did not ask me to do unrelated riddles and tests in order to ascertain some general level of intelligence, which can be condescending.