Finance Graduate Review
at Virgin Media O2
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Finance
Reading
Review Submitted: March 2022
Overall Rating
4.8 /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!
4.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.8/5
-
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
The role is an annual rotating role and therefore your day to day role varies year on year. My first year included Journal creation, balance sheet reconciliation etc. second year was more focused on rolling forecast, budgeting and long term planning and this year is within procurement.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The programme is amazing. As well as working hard, I have had days out with work, I have been to Amsterdam to a tech summit, I have been to Ireland and visited the VMTV studios, I have had an event at Twickingham stadium, I went to a gaming convention etc.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt alot! Whether that is more academic technical skills through the CIMA qualification, about personalities and people through internal training or softer skills such as presenting, tailoring your information to the stakeholders needs etc. There is also alot of learning on finance systems and excel.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Very well structured. We have Scheme leads, heads of year and buddys to help you through the process. There is clear expectations on study but with the flexibility for you to use your study leave as you please. There are quarterly meetings with all Finance graduates.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Virgin Media are very supportive. They give you the freedom to book exams and manage leave as you wish but they set there expectations on timelines. All cost associated with exams are covered, I get 6 days additional leave per exam plus plenty of other internal training.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The training provider is a little hit and miss on quality (BPP) but are very flexible around when you want to study. Although I don't think they are the best, I passed all exams first time apart from one so they do there job and the material is good enough.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The qualification (CIMA) is great, helps give you alot of knowledge that you can draw into your day to day (depending on your role) as well as helping you understand the wider business environment.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Things have definitely slowed down since Covid began but I have been part of 5 aside teams, I have been on team day outs, graduate nights out, go karting etc. There is plenty of opportunities if you put yourself forwards.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Virgin Media O2 to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The organisation has a great employee centric culture and provides opportunities to develop both as a person and academically.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Virgin Media O2?
I would say be yourself. The organisation is a very mixed and diverse team and its all about you being the right fit. If you be yourself and show your personality and get accepted, you know your are going to have a great time.
