Project Support Officer Review

I currently work on client site as a project support officer on a data protection project. I oversee the day to day running of the project, manage project finances, the project plan and assist in managing work streams. I also have regular contact with work stream leads to capture project updates and assist where needed.

I have developed a number of my existing skills including teamwork, communication and listening skills. Working on client side has allowed me to also develop some more financial and commercial skills. Working in an office environment has also developed my writing skills hugely, and I am better able to write commercial documents, emails and briefing papers.

I believe that the programme I am on is absolutely fantastic. I am able to develop myself both professionally and academically at the same time by going to university one day a week to build my theoretical knowledge in business and IT, and then consolidate my learning by applying it in the workplace.

My programme is well structured in terms of attending university one day a week and working the other four. Although this can be hard to manage at times I believe it is an efficient use of the working week and if I need any support of have concerns I can approach my workplace mentor.

I receive all the support I need from my employer. When I joined the programme I was assigned a buddy who has also gone through the degree apprenticeship programme. This was helpful as I had someone less former to ask questions of. I also get excellent support from my workplace mentor and colleagues.

The University of Winchester is very supportive in helping me to achieve my degree qualification. I have a university tutor and can always ask for support via email, phone, in class or in a one to one if I feel I am struggling or there is something I don’t understand.

The degree which I am working towards is directly linked to my role at work. By learning about theory, practices and frameworks at university I can then apply these in the workplace. I have also gained a lot of general knowledge within the industry from university is also helpful when engaging with stakeholders at work.

At work there are a number of extracurricular activities, these include charity events, corporate social responsibility initiatives and the sports and social club. There are a number of sporting teams and events, social events as well as networking events such as Business Unit outings where there is the opportunity to meet new people.

Yes

CGI is an excellent company which makes its members feel very welcome and included. It has a huge presence in the industry and there is so much opportunity to develop yourself as well as move roles. I believe that the company has aided me in my personal and professional development hugely and the programme I am on is excellent for anyone interested in IT and/or business.

My number one piece of advice for anyone applying for CGI is to ensure that you be yourself as that is the most important factor. I would also encourage others applying to demonstrate their enthusiasm to the company and explain why CGI should take them on, but also why they would love to work for the company.