Operations Apprentice Review

My role as part of the Marine and Cargo Operations team is to help oversee and maintain the smooth running of the practice. Some of what this involves is answering queries from clients, assisting with queries other members of the practice have received and running and distributing certain reports relevant to the proficiency of the specialty.

Through various training courses and workshops I have certainly developed a number of skills such as: time management, energy management, professionalism, customer service, relationship development, communication and appropriate office etiquette. In addition to this, in joining a company full of people I've never met before I've had some great practical experience in furthering my relationship development and communication skills.

So far I would have to say I have thoroughly enjoyed the program. Firstly, the recruitment team were always very friendly and helpful and that has held consistent with everyone else I've met during the apprenticeship so far. In addition to this, the programme has been full of new experiences and lessons to help me learn and develop new skills.

Overall, I would say the organisation of the programme is very good. Whenever there are events, opportunities or webinars to attend, it is always very clear how and where to access them, furthermore, the induction period was also very well organised as I always had something to do and knew what I was supposed to be doing.

My employer is always very supportive in consideration of my apprenticeship and the responsibilities that come with it for me. If ever I need time to work on something that contributes to my apprenticeship they are always willing to give me the necessary time and they frequently offer help with studying or understanding new concepts if needed.

As I haven't been on my programme for very long I feel that that I cannot fully speak to the level of support my training provider gives me. That being said however, I had my first coaching session with the coach I had been assigned and she was extremely helpful in providing clarity on my current progress and how on track I am, furthermore, she was able to answer any questions I had.

As someone who is new to the Insurance industry, studying for the Cert CII Level 3 Insurance Practitioner qualification has been fundamental in my understanding of insurance related aspects of my job role. In addition to this, once I've completed my qualification it will help me to further progress my career through opening up new avenues to me.

Given that I started my programme during the pandemic, which is still going on, social activities and sports opportunities are very rare. However, there have still been a fair few online opportunities for professional networking and also some social networking. From what I have heard from colleagues who have worked at the company for far longer than I there is usually lots of events and activities available company wide.

Yes

Marsh and McLennan are huge company with seemingly endless opportunities who happen to be a global leader in insurance broking and risk management solutions, so the merits of the quality and scale of the company sell themselves. In addition, the atmosphere and general attitude of all colleagues is really good, so far everyone I have met has been kind and welcoming and makes me look forward to being able to meet and network with even more people in the future.

My advice to anyone applying would be not to get too stressed out over the interviews and assessment centre / assessment days. I was personally quite stressed out about it but once I actually started my assessment day I ended up enjoying it a fair bit. Another bonus of the assessment centre is that you'll get opportunities alone with some of the other candidates just to chat in between activities which I also found nice. So as long as you do your proper due diligence and preparation you'll be fine!