Graduate Associate Project manager Review

My time at National Grid has been incredibly rewarding and transformative. Over the course of 18 months, I contributed to major infrastructure projects like Friston and SeaLink, developed data-driven solutions using Power BI and SQL. I played key roles in risk management, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory compliance, while also promoting National Grid through volunteering and graduate initiatives. This experience has equipped me with strong project management skills, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of the energy sector’s strategic priorities. I got certifications such as Nebosh, NEC4 for project managers, Persons training and more than a 140 more training.

First 6 Months
Supported Friston tender evaluation and SeaLink consultations.
Shadowed senior PMs and conducted HVDC site visits.
Delivered presentations, passed APM Qualification, and promoted National Grid through volunteering.
Second 6 Months
Built Power BI dashboards and SQL solutions for energy and risk projects.
applied the use of Power BI, SQL etc to solve problems
Facilitated inductions, created a graduate PM forum, and supported team development.
Final 6 Months
Authored QMP documentation and chaired project review meetings.
Led site visits, managed risks, and supported regulatory milestones.
Promoted National Grid externally and completed SharePoint migration.

Taken ownership of key tasks like tender evaluations, risk management, and regulatory documentation.
Delivered data-driven solutions and dashboards that supported strategic decision-making.
Led initiatives such as site visits, graduate forums, and induction sessions.
Earned recognition through certifications, advertorials, and internal competitions.

Flexible Work Arrangements
Hybrid and remote options are increasingly supported, contributing to work-life balance.
Professional Development
I benefited from NEC4 ECC Project Manager Accreditation training, APM certification, and other learning opportunities, LinkedIn learning and many more. these training involve reimbursement for transportation and feeding expenses etc
Pension & Financial Benefits
Competitive pension schemes and mileage reimbursement for business travel are available.
Health & Wellbeing Support
Mental health resources and wellbeing initiatives are increasingly part of the compensation strategy such as free eye test and glasses, DSE equipment.
Recognition & Career Progression
every 6month performance reviews and merit-based bonuses help ensure your contributions are recognised and rewarded.

My role at National Grid has prepared me well for my career in project management and the energy sector. Across your 18-month journey, I have;
Gained hands-on experience in project delivery, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
Developed strong technical skills in Power BI, SQL, and Agile methodologies, backed by certifications.
Built confidence in stakeholder engagement, report writing, and team collaboration.
Led initiatives like site visits, forums, and inductions, showing leadership and initiative.
Contributed meaningfully to strategic priorities, giving me a clear view of how large infrastructure projects are managed.
These experiences have equipped me with a solid foundation for future roles in project leadership, data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration.

Line Manager: Provided consistent guidance, regular feedback, and opportunities to take ownership of meaningful tasks. Their support helped shape your development and confidence in project delivery.
Buddy: Helped you settle in quickly, answered day-to-day questions, and supported your integration into the team culture.
Early Career team: Managed onboarding and training logistics well, though more visibility on long-term development pathways or rotation planning could have enhanced the experience.

Flexible Working: I had opportunities to work on-site and remotely, which helped balance personal time with professional responsibilities.
Wellbeing Support: Access to health and safety audits, health apps, wellbeing initiatives, and structured team ceremonies (e.g. Agile stand-ups) contributed positively to my mental and physical wellbeing.
Time Management: My involvement in structured rotations and project planning (e.g. sprint planning, stakeholder meetings) helped maintain a manageable workload.

The general atmosphere is very supportive, positive and inclusive. Health and safety is preached and followed every day at work. the core values are find a better way, make it happen and do the right thing

National Grid demonstrates a robust and evolving commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility through:
Strategic policies and measurable objectives.
Inclusive culture supported by ERGs and training.
Transparent assessments and community engagement.
Active internal and external communication.

Yes

Yes, I would recommend National Grid to a friend because of its inclusive culture, strong support systems, meaningful work, professional development opportunities, and commitment to sustainability and social impact.

my role at National Grid matched my expectations well, based on the recruitment process. The projects, training, and support I received aligned with what was communicated during onboarding. I was given meaningful responsibilities, opportunities for growth, and exposure to strategic initiatives—just as promised. The structured rotations and development plans helped deliver a well-rounded experience