Experience Consultant Review
at IBM
Degree Apprenticeship
Management Consulting, Market Research, Project Management, UX/UI Design
Manchester
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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:
5/5
I am an Experience Consultant at IBM with a diverse background across multiple projects, where I have contributed in roles such as Business Analyst and Communications analyst. These opportunities have allowed me to develop a broad understanding of project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication strategies.
Currently, I work as a User Researcher within a User-Centred Design team. In this role, I engage directly with system end users to understand their current experiences, needs, and pain points. I conduct qualitative research activities such as user interviews and usability testing to gather early feedback on systems in development. This research helps ensure that new solutions are designed with real user needs in mind and supports the delivery of more intuitive, effective, and user-focused products.
Currently, I work as a User Researcher within a User-Centred Design team. In this role, I engage directly with system end users to understand their current experiences, needs, and pain points. I conduct qualitative research activities such as user interviews and usability testing to gather early feedback on systems in development. This research helps ensure that new solutions are designed with real user needs in mind and supports the delivery of more intuitive, effective, and user-focused products.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Over the past year, I’ve grown a lot in my work. I’m more confident talking with clients and users, running interviews and usability tests, and turning feedback into actionable insights. My presentations have gotten clearer for both technical and non-technical audiences, and working in a user-focused environment has made me more adaptable and better at managing stakeholders. Overall, I feel I’ve strengthened my communication, research, and analytical skills, and have been able to contribute more to my projects and teams.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is really well structured. We’re given our 20% off-the-job hours without any issues, and project teams are very supportive, helping us develop skills and grow in different areas. The teams always attend uni reviews to provide guidance and support when needed. IBM has been running degree apprenticeships for a while, and their experience really shows in how smoothly the programme runs.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive excellent support from my employer. Teams are always approachable and ready to help, whether it’s for skill development, project guidance, or uni-related requirements. They make it easy to balance work and study, and there’s a real focus on helping apprentices grow and succeed.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Unconditional support throughout the programme. We are provided with skills coaches who regularly review our progress and genuinely want us to succeed. Each module has incredibly supportive tutors whose priority is helping everyone achieve to a high standard, offering detailed and constructive feedback to continually improve.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
All modules link closely to the work we do day to day. Even where the application isn’t immediate, the learning is clearly relevant for future development and progression. I can see why this qualification is offered and how the skills and knowledge gained help people succeed and progress in their roles.
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
There are a good range of extra‑curricular opportunities available, including project‑based work, professional networking events and location‑specific activities. These provide good opportunities to connect with others, build networks and gain exposure beyond day‑to‑day work.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend IBM to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes. IBM offers strong support, high‑quality learning opportunities and exposure to a wide range of projects and people. The environment encourages continuous development, with access to experienced colleagues, clients, structured learning pathways, and opportunities to build a strong professional network even at a young age
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?
Be open to learning and proactive in seeking opportunities. Make the most of networking events, project opportunities and location‑specific initiatives, as these are great ways to build experience and connections. Being curious, adaptable and willing to ask questions goes a long way.
