Regulatory Change Apprentice Review

I work in regulatory change and so this consists of monitoring incoming regulation and having an oversight of all of the in-flight projects within the portfolio that are working on implementing new regulations so M&G is able to remain compliant. This involves helping with project/reg consultancy work and attending meetings etc.

I believe being willing and motivated have been crucial as this demonstrates being prepared to take on work/be independent. Also taking the initiative to do things I haven't been asked to and the ability to communicate my ideas and present them to my team have been important in my development. In addition to this, organisation, time management and prioritisation in relation to urgency have been imperative, particularly when completing a qualification and apprenticeship programme alongside your role.

I am thoroughly enjoying my programme as there have been many opportunities to develop and progress in my role. The most enjoyable parts of my role are the consistent learning of new skills and processes, the inclusive and supportive culture, the various networking opportunities, building and gaining confidence in the work I do and interacting with the other apprentices in this year's cohort.

My programme is well organised and structured. I initially had a two-day induction with the other apprentices in the cohort and now spend 7 hours a week dedicated to my qualification and apprenticeship programme and the rest of the week working with my team. I also have weekly meetings with my manager and mentor in which we discuss the work I have been/will be doing in order to keep on top of all of my tasks and responsibilities. In addition to this, I attend meetings/work with other team members in order to increase my exposure to new roles/tasks and attend the apprentice upskilling sessions which take place monthly.

I receive a huge amount of support from employer. My manager, mentor and team have been great in helping to support me throughout my role by answering any questions I may have surrounding work or just by having a catch-up with me. This has been particularly crucial when working remotely as everything is virtual and I have only met my team via Microsoft Teams so far. I have also received a huge amount of support from my apprenticeship scheme manager and the other members of the apprentice cohort as they are also there to help with any broader queries or other problems you may have.

I have received lots of support from my training provider whilst working towards my qualification and apprenticeship programme work. If I have any problems, questions/queries or need feedback on a piece of work my BPP coach is very supportive and always responds promptly or books in a call if needs be. We also have review calls every month and these are really useful to discuss progress, plans for work or to express any concerns around anything. I thoroughly enjoy working with her.

My qualification and apprenticeship work has helped me to perform better in my role as it has improved my knowledge of what my role surrounds and has also helped me to acknowledge the knowledge, skills and behaviours I have been developing throughout working in my role over the past months. However, due to my role being in reg change and not compliance, my qualification was certainly useful to do but doesn't completely necessarily link to the work my role involves.

There are several extra-curricular activities to get involved with at M&G virtually such as 'coffee rooms'/catch-up meetings, company events/informative meetings, Investment 20/20 virtual networking events, 'Zumba' or other social/sporting activities and we are also hopefully going to be involved in an apprentice cohort community day post-pandemic.

Yes

M&G has been a really great, positive place to work and the apprenticeship programme has allowed me to develop both personally and professionally. The culture has certainly supported this and I am hoping once my programme finishes I will be able to continue my career here and progress further in my role.

The tips and advice I would give to others applying to M&G are always prepare for any interview and ensure you have researched the firm and your role well, including what your apprenticeship will involve if you are completing a qualification alongside this. Also take every opportunity you are offered as this will help your development and progression, and when in your role be independent and understand that you are trusted to complete the work you are given.