PDC Apprentice Data Analyst Review

My role within the People Data Centre involves work in data analytics. I look at search and social data specifically and I do market/competitor research to understand consumers. This is then reported back to the brands and marketing teams to support their work. On an everyday basis, I work on projects with my team to answer questions the marketing teams have and provide solutions based on data.

I have learnt many skills within data analytics such as collecting data, how to analyse data and how to use many new data tools. I have also learnt how to approach a project, project briefs, improve my presentation skills and many other platforms such as excel. I have also learnt a lot of personal and interpersonal skills when liaising with various stakeholders across the business.

I love being on an apprenticeship! I really enjoy being able to learn and gaining a qualification while being able to learn a profession in an amazing company. I learn something new everyday with so many new opportunities. On my apprenticeship programme I am able to meet so many new people in the same position as me across many different organisations. The programme also offers many different opportunities and training sessions to help my career progression and personal development.

I think Multiverse structure the programme in a way that allows us apprentices to work at our own pace while ensuring we also get the work completed. We have monthly sessions with our programme coaches which is a great opportunity to talk about the programme and develop. I also like that there are regular check ins and masterclasses to ensure we are learning all of the content. We are also able to take mock tests to prepare for our exams. I think if I could change anything, it would be to have a wider variety of mock tests available to us (optionally) to help in preparation.

I feel I receive a lot of support from my employer. I have weekly meetings with my manager to discuss any work, issues or anything else. I also feel that I am able to ask for help when necessary. My team have also made me feel very welcome and I am able to have regular meetings with them and individuals where necessary. They always check that I am ok in my programme and ask if there is anything more they can do to support.

I receive monthly coaching sessions with my business coach where we can discuss any work, ask any questions, practice for exams and overall improve my knowledge. We also have regular masterclasses for each topic to ensure we are learning all of the relevant information. I also receive regular emails of resources and have online platforms to look for resources to help me with my qualification.

I feel like the knowledge I learn as part of my qualification helps me to better understand the business in which I work and how various departments operate. I also think the skills that I have been able to develop in my coaching sessions have prepared me for work life to act professionally, use appropriate communication and overall improve my interpersonal skills.

Currently being virtual, I think some of these may be limited. However, Unilever offer a wide range of networks and other opportunities to be involved in. So far, I have been involved in a mentoring programme, networking events with other colleagues and my department are currently running an 'Olympic' style competition to encourage colleagues to get moving and get to know others.

Yes

I think Unilever are an amazing organisation to work for as there are so many opportunities available to work in different roles, shadow different areas, meet new people, expand my network and the list goes on! Unilever is an inclusive, flexible and social environment that allows everyone to feel comfortable. One thing that I love about being in Unilever as an apprentices is that they really care about young people, maximising their opportunities and really help them start their career.

I would definitely say to do it! Just relax and be yourself when you are talking to others and everyone will accept you for that. I would also say that Unilever loves their employees to have a purpose. So if you are able to discover your purpose or even to just do some research ahead then that would really help.