Associate Emerging Talent Manager Review

My main focus is learning & development for our early careers population, so an average day will involve lots of stakeholder management, designing or sourcing learning interventions and some administrative tasks to keep track of progress. There is also a strong focus on creating a positive onboarding experience for all of our Emerging Talent - apprentices, trainees and graduates. This involves planning engaging events, virtual or otherwise, coordinating different stakeholders and strong facilitation/presentation skills.

I learned a huge amount about HR processes through completing my CIPD qualification. In particular, learning about models to help understand things like employee engagement informs the content we put forward to our early careers population. My knowledge of employment law was previously very limited too, and being able to now apply a strong understanding of that in supporting the recruitment and development of our emerging talent is particularly useful.

I enjoyed my programme the majority of the time. There are inevitably modules that will interest you as an individual more than others, or will more closely relate to your day job than others. But there was something within each that I could link to my organisation at least, developing my understanding of why things are done the way they are.

The modules were very clearly set out from the beginning, and a calendar provided of all masterclasses with the tutor and the rest of my cohort. There was a good amount of flexibility within this though, which was of particular importance to me as I took a year out on maternity leave. I was able to return and join a new cohort at the right stage for me to pick up where I left off.

I was fully supported throughout my apprenticeship by my line manager and wider HR team. Although the reality is that an apprenticeship requires some investment of personal time, I was strongly encouraged to set aside the 20% of my working week to study, even when I returned from maternity leave to a part-time working pattern. I also received excellent guidance when considering options for my consultative project, and support from various teams within the organisation as I put it together.

This was variable as I had two different tutors throughout my time on the apprenticeship. There were times when the cohort's and the tutor's interpretation of the assignment criteria would vary to the point where it was very difficult to know how to approach the question. However, other modules were smoother and the support I received in preparation for my consultative project and professional discussion was very much appreciated.

I am often able to apply my learning in the workplace, but it has definitely also helped me to better understand the organisation as I've been able to work through examples of initiatives etc. and see why and how they've come about. Since completion, I have been able to have open conversations with my line manager about career progression and take steps to prepare myself for my next role.

Skanska has plenty going on for people to get involved with outside of their day-to-day job. There are Employee Networks, working to highlight and address issues faced by minority groups; every employee is entitled to a volunteering day; there is a Sports & Social committee who organise various events, and networking/knowledge-sharing events for different disciplines.

Yes

I have worked for Skanska for almost 9 years and have always felt supported and encouraged to challenge myself and take on development opportunities that will further my career. It is also a business that truly conducts business in line with its values as well as always looking forward to keep up with industry changes and customer expectations. I feel proud to be a part of it.

Be yourself! Skanska recognises that it needs diversity in every sense to be the most innovative and competitive business it can be. The recruitment process, whether for Emerging Talent or experienced positions, is heavily based around the values and what Skanska stands for, so do your homework and be ready to demonstrate how you relate to those areas.