Mainframe/z Sales Specialist Review
at IBM
Degree Apprenticeship
Sales
London
Review Submitted: February 2025
Overall Rating
4.1 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Day to day i work with clients and customers selling IBM Z/systems brand as well as supporting clients with their current mainframe platform. I also look into new opportunities working with startups and smaller businesses on how they can benefit from IBM technology and services
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy it, i constantly feel pushed to do my best and work outside of my comfort zone, i also am consistently given opportunities to upskill in new areas and attend amazing training courses e.g in other countries like USA and Germany. I always feel supported by my peers, management and mentors and have made some lifelong friendships and memories
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
So many, Mainframe, Coding, Cryptography, Digital Design, Blockchain, Quantum, presentation skills etc
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
It is organised well, we have one dedicated day per week for university work and work within our teams for the other 4
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
A lot of support wherever it is needed. I know that regardless of my question it will be answered
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
it is not great, they can be hard to get in contact with and sometimes their responses aren't very helpful. Their feedback on assignments is very general and they 'forget' to include essential topics within our course content that we are then assessed on. They often need additional sessions with us to further explain as their initial instructions aren't good enough. They also hold lecutures mid week at difficult times when the majority of us specifically hold our uni days on mondays or fridays
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
2/5
it gives me a wide understanding of technology which is needed for my role but does not provide me with the soft skills needed for a sales 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.)
4/5
A lot, i lead the apprentice community within my org where we hold social and educational events. We also have sports teams, recreational/hobby communities like book clubs, and inclusive and empowering communities like WomenInTech, La Familia, Ignite etc
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend IBM to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The community here is unlike any other
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?
Showcase your personality and individualism, be passionate and excited to learn
