Head of Digital Review
at RSA Group
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Insurance and Risk Management, Information Technology
Horsham, West Sussex
Review Submitted: March 2022
Overall Rating
3.5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
2.8/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
In my role I oversee a department of 60 digital experts from product ownership, content & SEO, UI and UX design and analytics. We deliver both strategic programmes that enable customers to buy, service and claims online as well as day-to-day improvements that support us in delivering our business growth ambitions.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
The programme as a whole has been very enjoyable, more from the subject matter and the growth I feel I am achieving. It's been a long time since I've been in formal education and I didn't enjoy it last time round, but this experience has shown me how much I've missed the structure of learning.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Through my apprenticeship, I've learned a whole new side to leadership. The coaching programme has allowed me to develop my style to be less directive and more supportive, creating a culture of thinking and fostering the talent of each individual in the team. As a bonus I've also developed more confidence in providing feedback.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The programme was relatively new and I think as a result could have been better structured. I would like more time in the classroom with my fellow students and far more observation time, all of that said my coach mentor on the programme has been inspiring and provided clear structure and support throughout.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
My employee has been great in terms of giving me the time to complete the apprenticeship. I have never been made to feel bad for taking time out to study and my days have been protected throughout. That said, there are no specialist coaches in the HR function and I think were there I would have had greater support.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
I have received a good amount of support from my coach mentor and we have a regular catch-up every 6 weeks. I feel there is very limited tutor time, for example, bar a 2-day workshop and one 2 hour training session I haven't had any sessions for ca 4 months.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
100%. This is without doubt the best leadership training I've had. Yes, you get company training all the time around key leadership skills and HR policies etc, but it is rare to spend this amount of time focusing on a single soft skill. I can already see the benefit it is having to my own role but also to the role of others around me.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
In relation to the apprenticeship itself not really, although I have had a few online meetings with other students. Outside of the apprenticeship there are always opportunities to get involved in social activities, volunteering days, and professional networking events, covid aside. Recently I have spoken at an industry event and we have also held a couple of department socials.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend RSA Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think they have shown a huge amount of care and personal accountability for their employees during covid. For me personally, they have always held me in positive regard and they have helped me to develop my own strengths to be able to adapt and utilise them in a variety of situations. I'm respected and appreciated for what I bring.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to RSA Group?
If you've not worked in financial services before you may think the company aren't interested in you given how long the recruitment process can take, that isn't the case, our financial checks take time, so bare with us because we do want your talent! Once you're in the door you can expect a truly warm welcome.
