Client Strategy Apprentice Review

I helped coordinate and programme exclusive events and projects. I was able to attend these luxury events from a staff perspective to ensure a luxury client experience for clients and patrons attending. I analysed client and event data to produce in-depth debrief reviews, which were used to help with client strategy.

My communication skills increased tenfold, as I was verbally and producing written communication to internal key stakeholders as well as external stakeholders. My organisational skills have improved, as without them I would not have been able to keep on track on all my tasks and responsibilities. I learnt how to telephone bid, and got to participate in auctions as a result. I also was able to complete some academic studies such as attending a Christie's Education course in Valuations.

I very much enjoyed my time at Christie's, having been able to work on once in a lifetime luxury events and meet some incredible people. I felt well intergrated into my apprentice cohort and the company, being invited to many internal staff gatherings, as well as being trusted to work on confidential data and help with the day-to-day runnings of my department. I was given time to work on my apprenticeship, and everyone respected those boundaries.

Well structured, I was settled in from the get go. The programme works so that previous apprentice in the department has a 4 month overlap, so you have a mentor to teach you how the department and company works, and to provide support on your responsibilities.

Christie's provides a lot of support and benefits. The apprenticeship provider and course was not suited to the cohort's day-to-day work, therefore they were able to change it to something more applicable - the HR department hear your concerns.

The training provider could have done more to support our group in terms of teaching and additional support. By the end of the course, my group had too many mentors from the provider in trying to rapidly catch us all up a few weeks before our end point assessment. But the HR department have heard and listened to our concerns and have changed providers and course for future apprentices to avoid this in the future.

My qualification has helped me very much in my excel skills which I use many times in my day-to-day role. It is very helpful as my colleagues do not have to teach me how to use certain excel functions. I am trusted to navigate around the excel sheet fluently and analyse data.

Christie's hosts social events such as: socials with subsidised drinks, running club, gallery walkthroughs, panel discussions and talks, and the christmas party.

Yes

I had the best time there, making some amazing lifelong friends, as well as working on projects that I never would have imagined on being able to help at. I have too many interests in different places, so being able to go straight into the workplace has given me a direct path to follow. I love being able to combine my business skills and knowledge with my passion for art. Its amazing to find out how big the art sector is.

When applying, the process is long and generic. After the first/second round it is normal not to have heard back for a few months - this is due to the sheer volume of applications. The departments you apply to are not specific and are generalised, this is because the process takes on a 'spotlight' approach - the department picks you based on your skills and your personality. Be yourself and showcase your passion!