Global Data Steward Review

I work as a Global Data Analyst in the Operations function of AstraZeneca. The main responsibility of my role is to set up product master data to allow for our products to be launched into markets. I sit on a team called; Global Operations Launch Team where I am the lead for master data activities. This work involves working across multiple global systems, to manage the master data set up as well as working with members of the organisation from across the world to enable this. Each day, I will run reports to understand where the process is up to, if it is being held up, why and then report back to the team lead. The responsibility on myself is extremely high but it shows the trust and commitment the company have to educating and training me in this role by allowing me to own these activities.

Since beginning at AstraZeneca I have gained a NVQ Level 3 in Business and Admin and am working towards gaining Level 4, 5 & 6 in my degree. Internally, I have also been trained as a Project Manager and in the project methodologly; Agile. I have gained skills in presenting, communicating, managing stakeholders, time management, financial management and team management. These have all helped me develop in my role but also helped me take on external challenges such as presenting at the houses of parliment about apprenticeships and working with the Teenage Cancer Trust to raise money for them.

I love the programme, it has given me an excellent insight into the working world as well as developing me both personally and professionally. I would highly reccommend apprenticeships as they give you a good balance of gaining workplace experience and whilst studying for an education. My team and deparment are amazing at pushing me to do the best in my job whilst pushing the boundaries of the work we do as a company to be the best we can be. The programme has exceeded my expecatations in the development and experiences I have gained.

I feel very valued, particualrly in my team as they have dedicated the time to train me but also given me a lot of responsiblity to test what I have learnt. They trust my knowledge and expertise to allow me to have a lot of responsiblity which in turn builds up my experience to constantly be better each and everyday.

Since beginning at AstraZeneca 5 years ago, the organisation and structure of the programme has improve greatly. The training at university is prioritised extremely highly whilst the support through having both university and work mentors means that the channels are there to progress any issues or concerns we have.

Manchester Met offer a lot of support, as mentioned we have both university mentors and all our tutors are there for support whenever we need it. Offering us routes for support via meetings, in lectures or email whenever we need it.

Again, we are offered a lot of support from AstraZeneca through having mentors, task managers and then line managers to ensure that what we are doing is appopriate and to understand how we are getting on. If at any point I have felt stressed, I can speak to my task and line manager who look to bring my workload down to allow me to get back to a good place with both work and university.

For me, the salary and benefits AstraZeneca offer exceeded my expecations. They pay an excellent wage for an apprenticeship which has been increased over the years allowing me to move out of my parents house. The benefits offered as well such as buying shares in the company, buying extra holiday days and private healthcare to name a few are extremely useful.

Social events are high for AstraZeneca, in my particular department, we aim to have 5-8 socials a year which range from; Bowling & Wine Tasting to The Crystal Maze. These are great as they allow you to externally socialise with colleagues that you might not have time for in work. A voluntary scheme is encouraged at work where we are allowed 1 day per year to volunteer at a company that partners with AstraZeneca, these range from Old Peoples Homes to Shelter for the disabled and helping the homeless. Additionally, AstraZeneca have a gym that we get at a discounted price, this has a range of classes as well as sport events such as a Running Club.

Yes

For me, it has given me an opportunity into the working world that I never thought I would get. Having both a degree and experience puts you a step above the rest and the support and drive you get from the company is amazing.

The application focus has a real drive on understanding the companies values and the real goal of the company; saving patients lives. Understandingis and incorporating it into you application, interviews and assessment days will put you in a good place. Additionally, work experience or being part of a team is really useful as it shows what skills and experience you have already learnt and can instantly apply to the job.