Group Operations System Manager Review

As a systems manager my role involves implementing and developing key business systems across the Group. I work with all levels of the business to provide solutions to day to day problems and tasks. One day I could be working on resolving an issue, the next I could be working on a new process that is being rolled out. My workload varies depending on the week, I could be working later every day one week but then finishing early on some days the following week.

I have been able to develop my delegating skills while on the apprenticeship. One thing I have always struggled with is releasing control for something. I have learnt to be able to let go of the unnecessary tasks and trust other members of the team. I have developed my stakeholder management skills since beginning my apprenticeship by managing expectations ahead of projects.

I am seeing the benefits of taking the apprenticeship. Each section takes a good amount of time to complete so you need to make sure there are not distractions when you complete them. I have found that I will either have to log on in an evening or on the weekend to complete some tasks when my work life is busy.

There have been a lot of changes over the course of my apprenticeship - the work I am doing has changed 3 times during the course. Furthermore, my completion percentage was not updated accurately until a year into my apprenticeship despite me raising this several times. This made it difficult to keep track of how I was progressing with the course.

My employer has provided me with time during the working day to complete aspects of my Apprenticeship but it does become difficult when there is a lot going one. When my percentages were wrong, my employer was able to speak with Smart Assessor to get them updated so they are correct.

I have a monthly call with my assessor who provides the modules and the information that I need to complete my apprenticeship. They are always very quick to respond to the work I complete and provide feedback in a timely manner. The feedback I receive is very useful and allows me to provide the correct information to achieve the course.

My qualification allows me to work on the day to day skills I use in my employment which helps manage my workload and prioritise the tasks that need to be completed. I have been able to switch off outside of work and worry less about work tasks that can be completed when I return to work.

It is difficult because we are an organisation that works remotely across the whole of the UK. We have a quarterly team meeting where we all meet up face to face and socialise on the evening after. We also have a virtual team meeting that is dedicated to the social side that would happen naturally in an office.

Yes

Ivolve is a friendly place to work where everyone is always willing to help one another out. There are different individuals across the organisation who have different levels and areas of expertise. This allows for colleagues to always know there is someone to contact who will be able to assist with their problem.

I would advise them to be open and honest when applying for a job. If you have the right skills and personality then you may not necessarily need the experience to get the job. Ivolve is a very give/take company in that if you put more time in you will get it back.