corporate account executive Review
at Softcat
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Information Technology, Sales
Leeds
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
-
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 a Corporate Sales Apprentice within the Corporate Sales team at Softcat, based in Leeds. My role involves supporting customers with their IT requirements while learning the full sales cycle, from initial engagement through to order placement and ongoing account management. Day to day, I work closely with customers, internal teams, and vendors to help deliver the right solutions, whether that’s licensing, hardware, renewals, or general IT support.
A key part of my role is building and maintaining strong customer relationships. I enjoy speaking with customers, understanding their challenges, and helping them find solutions that genuinely add value to their business. I also support the administrative and commercial side of sales, such as preparing quotes, managing orders, following up on renewals, and ensuring everything runs smoothly from enquiry to delivery. This has helped me develop strong organisational skills and a good commercial awareness.
What I enjoy most about my role is the balance between people interaction and problem-solving. No two days are the same each customer has different needs, and I like having the opportunity to learn about different industries and adapt my approach accordingly. I also enjoy working as part of a team, learning from experienced colleagues, and collaborating across different departments to achieve the best outcome for the customer.
Being part of the apprenticeship has allowed me to continuously develop my confidence, communication, and technical knowledge while applying what I learn in a real working environment. I find it rewarding to see my progression over time and to know that I’m contributing to both customer success and team targets.
Overall, I enjoy my role because it challenges me, supports my development, and allows me to build meaningful relationships while working towards a long-term career in sales and technology.
A key part of my role is building and maintaining strong customer relationships. I enjoy speaking with customers, understanding their challenges, and helping them find solutions that genuinely add value to their business. I also support the administrative and commercial side of sales, such as preparing quotes, managing orders, following up on renewals, and ensuring everything runs smoothly from enquiry to delivery. This has helped me develop strong organisational skills and a good commercial awareness.
What I enjoy most about my role is the balance between people interaction and problem-solving. No two days are the same each customer has different needs, and I like having the opportunity to learn about different industries and adapt my approach accordingly. I also enjoy working as part of a team, learning from experienced colleagues, and collaborating across different departments to achieve the best outcome for the customer.
Being part of the apprenticeship has allowed me to continuously develop my confidence, communication, and technical knowledge while applying what I learn in a real working environment. I find it rewarding to see my progression over time and to know that I’m contributing to both customer success and team targets.
Overall, I enjoy my role because it challenges me, supports my development, and allows me to build meaningful relationships while working towards a long-term career in sales and technology.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy the apprenticeship programme to a great extent as it provides a strong balance between structured learning and real, hands-on experience. The programme allows me to apply what I learn directly into my role, which helps reinforce my understanding and makes the learning feel meaningful rather than theoretical.
One of the aspects I enjoy most is the opportunity to develop professionally while working in a real business environment. The combination of on-the-job learning, regular training sessions, and ongoing support from my manager and wider team has helped me build both confidence and competence in my role. I value being trusted with responsibility while also having the support in place to ask questions and continue improving.
I also enjoy the variety the programme offers. Each day is different, whether I’m speaking to customers, supporting quotes, managing renewals, or learning about new technologies. This variety keeps me motivated and engaged, and it has helped me gain a broad understanding of sales, technology, and customer relationship management.
Overall, the programme has exceeded my expectations. It has not only helped me develop key skills such as communication, organisation, and problem-solving, but has also confirmed my interest in building a long-term career within sales and technology. Because of this, I would say I enjoy the apprenticeship programme very much, both for the learning opportunities it provides and the personal growth I’ve achieved so far.
One of the aspects I enjoy most is the opportunity to develop professionally while working in a real business environment. The combination of on-the-job learning, regular training sessions, and ongoing support from my manager and wider team has helped me build both confidence and competence in my role. I value being trusted with responsibility while also having the support in place to ask questions and continue improving.
I also enjoy the variety the programme offers. Each day is different, whether I’m speaking to customers, supporting quotes, managing renewals, or learning about new technologies. This variety keeps me motivated and engaged, and it has helped me gain a broad understanding of sales, technology, and customer relationship management.
Overall, the programme has exceeded my expectations. It has not only helped me develop key skills such as communication, organisation, and problem-solving, but has also confirmed my interest in building a long-term career within sales and technology. Because of this, I would say I enjoy the apprenticeship programme very much, both for the learning opportunities it provides and the personal growth I’ve achieved so far.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My apprenticeship programme is highly structured, with a clear framework that supports both my professional role and my long‑term development. The structure combines formal learning, planned training sessions, and on‑the‑job experience, ensuring that there is consistent progression throughout the programme.
The learning side of the programme is well organised, with scheduled apprenticeship learning sessions led through Softcat’s training providers, such as the Apprenticeship Learning – Firebrand Sales sessions, which are built into my working schedule rather than treated as an add‑on. These sessions provide dedicated time to focus on knowledge, skills, and behaviours that directly link back to my day‑to‑day role
Alongside structured learning, the programme follows a clear standard and objectives, which define what is expected of me at each stage. This is supported by regular reviews, coursework deadlines, and evidence gathering, allowing me to measure my progress and understand how my learning aligns with my role and responsibilities.
The structure is further reinforced through manager and team support, as well as planned exposure to real responsibilities within my role. This ensures that what I learn academically is immediately applied in a practical setting, helping to embed skills such as communication, organisation, and customer management into my everyday work.
Overall, the programme is structured enough to provide clear direction, expectations, and checkpoints, while still allowing flexibility to adapt learning to real business situations. This balance has helped me stay organised, accountable, and confident in my progression throughout the apprenticeship.
The learning side of the programme is well organised, with scheduled apprenticeship learning sessions led through Softcat’s training providers, such as the Apprenticeship Learning – Firebrand Sales sessions, which are built into my working schedule rather than treated as an add‑on. These sessions provide dedicated time to focus on knowledge, skills, and behaviours that directly link back to my day‑to‑day role
Alongside structured learning, the programme follows a clear standard and objectives, which define what is expected of me at each stage. This is supported by regular reviews, coursework deadlines, and evidence gathering, allowing me to measure my progress and understand how my learning aligns with my role and responsibilities.
The structure is further reinforced through manager and team support, as well as planned exposure to real responsibilities within my role. This ensures that what I learn academically is immediately applied in a practical setting, helping to embed skills such as communication, organisation, and customer management into my everyday work.
Overall, the programme is structured enough to provide clear direction, expectations, and checkpoints, while still allowing flexibility to adapt learning to real business situations. This balance has helped me stay organised, accountable, and confident in my progression throughout the apprenticeship.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a high level of support from my employer throughout my apprenticeship, both in relation to my role and my development on the programme. This support is consistent, structured, and tailored to helping me succeed in my apprenticeship alongside my day‑to‑day responsibilities.
I am supported closely by my line manager who regularly holds 1‑to‑1 meetings with me to review performance, provide feedback, and discuss development areas. These sessions give me the opportunity to ask questions, reflect on progress, and receive guidance on how to improve, both academically and professionally. My participation in formal reviews such as probation and progress reviews also demonstrates continued managerial involvement and support in monitoring my development.
My employer also supports my learning by protecting time for apprenticeship activities, including scheduled learning sessions, coursework, and review meetings. Structured apprenticeship learning events, such as Apprenticeship Learning – Firebrand Sales sessions, are built into my working schedule, ensuring learning is prioritised rather than completed outside of work hours.
Beyond my immediate manager, I receive support from the wider sales leadership and training teams, with access to regular training sessions, team meetings, and upskilling opportunities run by experienced colleagues and sales enablement managers. This wider network of support allows me to learn from different perspectives and develop confidence in a professional sales environment.
I am supported closely by my line manager who regularly holds 1‑to‑1 meetings with me to review performance, provide feedback, and discuss development areas. These sessions give me the opportunity to ask questions, reflect on progress, and receive guidance on how to improve, both academically and professionally. My participation in formal reviews such as probation and progress reviews also demonstrates continued managerial involvement and support in monitoring my development.
My employer also supports my learning by protecting time for apprenticeship activities, including scheduled learning sessions, coursework, and review meetings. Structured apprenticeship learning events, such as Apprenticeship Learning – Firebrand Sales sessions, are built into my working schedule, ensuring learning is prioritised rather than completed outside of work hours.
Beyond my immediate manager, I receive support from the wider sales leadership and training teams, with access to regular training sessions, team meetings, and upskilling opportunities run by experienced colleagues and sales enablement managers. This wider network of support allows me to learn from different perspectives and develop confidence in a professional sales environment.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
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
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Softcat to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Softcat to a friend because it is a supportive, inclusive, and development‑focused workplace, particularly for someone starting their career. From my experience, Softcat invests a lot of time and effort into helping employees grow, both professionally and personally.
One of the main reasons I would recommend Softcat is the level of support available, especially for apprentices. I have received consistent guidance from my manager and wider team, with regular check‑ins, feedback, and encouragement to ask questions and learn. This makes it a great environment for building confidence and developing new skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Softcat also offers strong learning and progression opportunities. Through structured training, apprenticeship learning sessions, and exposure to real responsibilities, I have been able to gain valuable experience while working towards recognised qualifications. The business actively encourages development and gives people opportunities to progress if they show commitment and motivation.
Another reason I would recommend Softcat is the company culture. The environment is professional but friendly, and teamwork is strongly encouraged. People are approachable, willing to help, and supportive of one another, which makes it an enjoyable place to work day to day.
Overall, I would recommend Softcat to a friend because it provides a good balance of support, development, and real‑world experience, making it an excellent place to start or grow a career, particularly within sales and technology.
One of the main reasons I would recommend Softcat is the level of support available, especially for apprentices. I have received consistent guidance from my manager and wider team, with regular check‑ins, feedback, and encouragement to ask questions and learn. This makes it a great environment for building confidence and developing new skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Softcat also offers strong learning and progression opportunities. Through structured training, apprenticeship learning sessions, and exposure to real responsibilities, I have been able to gain valuable experience while working towards recognised qualifications. The business actively encourages development and gives people opportunities to progress if they show commitment and motivation.
Another reason I would recommend Softcat is the company culture. The environment is professional but friendly, and teamwork is strongly encouraged. People are approachable, willing to help, and supportive of one another, which makes it an enjoyable place to work day to day.
Overall, I would recommend Softcat to a friend because it provides a good balance of support, development, and real‑world experience, making it an excellent place to start or grow a career, particularly within sales and technology.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Softcat?
The main advice I would give to others considering a similar role or apprenticeship is to be proactive and make the most of the opportunities available. Apprenticeships provide a lot of support and learning, but the level of value you get depends on how much effort you put in.
I would also advise others to manage their time effectively. Balancing a full‑time role alongside apprenticeship learning can be challenging, so being organised, planning ahead, and keeping on top of coursework and deadlines is key. Using the tools provided and setting aside dedicated time for learning makes the workload much more manageable, which aligns with guidance shared across Softcat apprenticeship experiences.
Another important piece of advice is to ask questions and seek feedback regularly. There is a strong support network within Softcat, including managers, colleagues, and training teams, and people are always willing to help. Taking advantage of this support helps build confidence and accelerates development.
Finally, I would encourage others to stay open‑minded and positive, especially in the early stages. The programme can feel challenging at times, but it is designed to support long‑term growth. Being willing to learn from mistakes, adapt, and stay motivated makes the experience far more rewarding and helps you gain the most from the apprenticeship.
I would also advise others to manage their time effectively. Balancing a full‑time role alongside apprenticeship learning can be challenging, so being organised, planning ahead, and keeping on top of coursework and deadlines is key. Using the tools provided and setting aside dedicated time for learning makes the workload much more manageable, which aligns with guidance shared across Softcat apprenticeship experiences.
Another important piece of advice is to ask questions and seek feedback regularly. There is a strong support network within Softcat, including managers, colleagues, and training teams, and people are always willing to help. Taking advantage of this support helps build confidence and accelerates development.
Finally, I would encourage others to stay open‑minded and positive, especially in the early stages. The programme can feel challenging at times, but it is designed to support long‑term growth. Being willing to learn from mistakes, adapt, and stay motivated makes the experience far more rewarding and helps you gain the most from the apprenticeship.
