Chartered Management Degree Apprentice Review

Currently, i am in my third rotational role (previous roles include: Bedstock Trading Executive and Travel Advisor) as a Mobile Merchandising Executive for the TUI Mobility Hub. I am responsible for the optimisation of the 'highlights' page of the TUI app for all source markets in the TUI Group.

In my current rotational role i have learnt a lot of new skills. I have learnt to think outside of the box to find new and innovative ways to increase sales. I have developed my communication and stakeholder management skills and refined my analytical skills.

I really enjoy the rotational pathway on my program. The opportunity to rotate around the business is an invaluable experience and i have been extremely lucky to have been in three completely unique roles. I feel the program has changed my perception of how businesses operate and the culture of office work. I also enjoy the ability to gain a degree whilst working.

I think that the program has definitely had a few challenges and obstacles to its success. I think that the business still needs some persuading on the benefits of the program as awareness throughout the business is low. When finding new rotational roles senior leaders are needing to be 'persuaded' to take a degree apprentice into their team which is a shame when we are fully capable of performing in the role. I think as we progress through the program the roles should be changed and adapted responsibilities to reflect our maturity and level of experience. However, i know this is not always possible with the current climate. On the other hand, i feel that TUI is always considering our feedback and we have regular forums to discuss our concerns. I think the biggest area for improvement is the relationship between the university and employer. The university structures assignments and projects which are not always possible or supported by the employer.

I feel that the employer supports me through progress reviews with the university, regular forums and constant feedback sessions.

I personally think the University support for an apprentice lets the scheme down. Deadlines are unrealistically set for apprentices and feedback is a chore rather than a useful tool. Feedback is documented and filed away but never improved. The availability of tutors is limited and makes it extremely difficult to make contact during assignments. Progress review meetings are infrequent and official feedback sessions even less frequent.

Personally, i feel that the degree modules have helped me to conduct research professionally and to a good standard. I feel that my academic writing has also significantly improved. I also feel that the modules will help me as a future manager but these have yet to be put into practice through limited opportunities to lead teams//projects. I think it would be better to include more core skills specific modules rather than broad skills which often are repeated in many modules

Currently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic there is very little extra-curricular activities happening .However, before the pandemic i was frequently involved in team building days and charity events.

Yes

I think TUI is a great employer. They value feedback and their staff, i feel extremely proud to work for TUI and think that the values they echo through the business are also present in every colleague. The atmosphere of the office and team environments are welcoming and engaging.

Make sure you research the business, understand their product ranges and show your passion and interests in the company. Make sure you can map all of the TUI values to activities or experiences you have done!