Trainee Associate - Customer Management Review
at PwC
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Business Operations
Belfast
Review Submitted: April 2024
Overall Rating
4.6 /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!
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
On Thursdays, I attend university pursuing a degree in Leading Consumer Operations, essentially focusing on Business Management, tailored specifically for PwC. It is very interesting and relevant!
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
My career coach has played a pivotal role in recognising my potential and enhancing my skill set. Transitioning from Financial Crime to Customer Management was a result of them recognising my abilities and believing in my potential to excel in a new role.
Moreover, the promotion prospects at PwC and the emphasis on continuous self-improvement are unparalleled. Over the four years, the goal is to advance four levels beyond where a university graduate typically starts at PwC, reflecting the commitment to personal and professional growth within the company's culture.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
Furthermore, my coursework has honed my communication skills, both written and verbal, enabling me to effectively interact with customers and colleagues. I've also become proficient in time management and prioritisation, essential for balancing work commitments with academic responsibilities.
Overall, the comprehensive training and exposure provided by my degree have equipped me with a well-rounded skill set that is instrumental in my professional development and success.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
Regular interactions are a key feature of our program. I have weekly meetings with my Team Leader, monthly sessions with my career coach, and support from both a social buddy and a general buddy, along with ongoing engagement with managers. Additionally, we undergo comprehensive tripartite reviews twice a year, involving our career coaches and university head tutors. These reviews assess our progress, evaluate performance based on assignments and targets, and review our work attitudes. This structured support system plays a vital role in our development and success within the program.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
We have access to a wealth of resources, regular meetings, and a network of fellow HLAs from different cohorts, providing valuable insights and guidance. Moreover, help is just a Google chat away whenever there's a need or concern, underscoring the strong support system in place to facilitate our success and development.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
Additionally, the university provides reading weeks and support sessions, offering ample opportunities to study and complete assignments. Career coaches also play a crucial role by providing relevant PwC information and guidance to support us in our assignments, making their assistance invaluable.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
Additionally, PwC encourages community engagement through initiatives like our six volunteering days per year. We participate in concert nights to raise funds for charity and engage in company-wide events like "One Firm, One Day," where most employees volunteer together.
As an apprentice, I benefit from being part of university societies while also having access to PwC's diverse range of networks and societies, enhancing both personal and professional development opportunities.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend PwC to a friend?
Why?
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to PwC?
Here are additional tips for applying to PwC:
Research the Company
Tailor Your Application
Highlight Transferable Skills
Prepare for Interviews
Network insights into the company culture and the application process.
Show Enthusiasm
Remember, being authentic and showcasing your true self will not only make your application stand out but also ensure the best fit between you and PwC's dynamic environment.