Manager of Commercial Performance Review

I have recently changed roles, when I joined the course I was a customer performance manager. Which in terms of responsibility it was a regional operations manager, whereby I managed a team of front line managers. This would cover all aspects of the operation; health and safety, finance, employee engagement, customer satisfaction, operators licencing, performance management and B2B account management. My new role has responsibility for improving revenue generation in The AA through our road services and other smaller businesses.

Yes I have learnt a lot of new skills and they have actually been very useful for transitioning into my new role. I have spent many years in an operational role, that requires a lot of people management skills, this could has developed that in more detail. I have only been in my new position a few weeks and I have already drawn on models and theories used in my marketing strategy module, which 18 months ago I would not have understood.

I have no previous academic background, and at times I have found it very challenging stepping into the unknown. I have really enjoyed some of the modules and have found an interest in subjects that I never thought I would. I enjoy the reading and research associated it the degree.

The content of the course is very good and some of the lecturers have been outstanding. One point that everyone on the course would mention straight away is the organisation. It can at times be uncoordinated and for a management and leadership course, your expectations are that it will be organised with precision.

I cannot fault the support, my manager has been supportive by allowing me to do the course. When I have had reviews with my tutor, he has made himself available. The biggest challenge is time and blending the work with my daily role, I am appreciative that no pressure has been applied and I have been allowed to filter the 20% requirement into my position.

The university are very good in this area, if you need some time from your subject lecturer when I have requested this, they have offered an appointment. I additionally had to undertake my level two in English, which the training provider offered a good level of online tools to support.

This one has been clear for me. What has highlighted my learning has been moving into a new role. It is an area that I have not experienced before, but the learning has given me some good methods and models to apply in this position. When writing business papers, understanding of terminology and methodology has moved my business awareness forwards.

I have worked for this organisation for almost 18 years, yes there are some great social activities and networking events. When I was managing the operational function, I would arrange social events for my teams to meet, as they are remote workers. I have also joined an allies group to talk about gender diversity in the workplace, this has led to attending professional industry seminars.

Yes

When I began at The AA in 2003, I was young (20) and didn't really know what I wanted to do with my career. Through the years The AA has provided me with several training opportunities and has taken me to where I am today. It is a large business where you can do a variety of roles and be supported in achieving your goals.

If you are applying then, I would say you need to understand competency based interviews, research the business and know the role you are applying for. The AA is a 24 hour a day, 365 day a year business. If you are motivated, reliable and flexible you will do well in this industry.