Finance Graduate Review

by Virgin Media O2

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I'm a part of the Finance Graduate Scheme and my first rotation has been in Management Accounts. My role involves preparing journals and balance sheet reconciliations. I analyse key financial figures in detail. I interact with various stakeholders, preparing reporting and delivering financial results each month.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I've developed my Excel skills, becoming a more confident user through discovering the various functions and shortcuts. My accounting knowledge has improved throughout my role.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I've loved being with the other grads of my cohort; making friends with them and knowing I can always rely on them for help, or to ask any silly questions. I enjoy being in my current team; everyone that I've met so far has been very friendly.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is very well structured with 3 year long rotations. I find this ideal as it allows you to discover which areas of finance/the business you'd enjoy working in the most. It also allows you to meet new people and grow your network.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I have frequent informal 1:1s with my line manager, where I can ask any questions. We get assigned a Head of Year, who acts as a mentor, who I've been able to learn from. Overall I've felt very supported throughout.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Our training provider, BPP, provides recorded lectures/live lectures as well as textbooks and test questions. The materials provided have been useful in studying towards the exams.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I have improved upon my accounting knowledge through studying towards my exams. It has led to an improved understanding throughout my day-to-day role.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

The graduate scheme holds quarterly events where you can meet other VMO2 grads, and hear from various people across the business about their roles. The office holds occasional social events. They have a Take Five initiative where you have 5 paid volunteering days a year.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Virgin Media O2 to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It has a fantastic company culture, where everyone is friendly and happy to help. Having multiple rotations allows you to learn about different areas of Finance. There's many opportunities for development through various courses.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Virgin Media O2?

Be open to relocating, as throughout rotations you may be placed at various office locations.