Business Intelligence Analyst Review

I am responsible for the development and maintenance of a reporting environment housing AstraZeneca procurement data from various source systems in one place. I develop dashboards and data visualisations connected to this consolidated data source to allow Procurement stakeholders to make better business decisions. A key aim of my role is to facilitate self-serve analytics and empowering the end user.

Before joining AstraZeneca I had not built a data warehouse from the ground up before. I am now using ETL techniques on a daily basis to build and maintain this data warehouse. I am learning Python, and am developing skills in SQL. I have learnt a lot more about data visualisation and dashboard building for an enterprise audience.

I enjoy my programme. I am learning new skills and techniques that are not currently useful in my role but are developing me into a more rounded data analyst. There are varying levels of engagement from other members of my apprenticeship cohort which can make the experience feel a little disjointed.

The programme is well structured and broken down into easy to manage chunks that fit around my existing work schedule very well. The are some minor consistency gaps between what the course provider is directing and what is required to be logged for government purposes, but these cases are limited.

I receive limited support from my employer aside from the time required to complete the course, but this is all that I have expected or needed from my employer so far. My line manager has shown genuine interest in the course, my progress and actively participates in discussions with the course facilitators.

The training providers have been great throughout. On the very infrequent occasion that I have needed advice or direction they have been approachable and, on the whole, prompt in responding to any queries or concerns. Workshop facilitators are passionate and always offer the option of direct contact for both support or for personal stretch.

I feel that I have not found a lot of the course material useful in my current role, however, I am already working in a data intensive role where we are using certain technologies to achieve specific tasks to a high level. This is certainly helping me to become a more rounded data analyst and there will be a time in the very near future where the things I am learning on the course will be critical to performing well in my role.

There are lots of opportunities to get involved in at my place of work. I am personally not taking advantage of anything extra-curricular at the moment because I have three very young children which are demanding of my time outside of working hours. In the future, I may be keen to get more engaged with this.

Yes

There are opportunities at AstraZeneca. It pays well, often achieving its targets. There is a lot of flexibility to work or gain experience in different areas and to grow as an individual. It is a friendly place to work. It is a place I feel proud to work at, particularly given the recent profit-free efforts on the Covid vaccine.

AstraZeneca feels like the sort of place where you achieve success based on the working relationships you build with people. You will get a lot more from your AstraZeneca experience if you are engaging, confident and willing to help. With any massive organisation there is a certain amount of red tapes which can slow progress down somewhat, persistence is key.