Risk and Controls Analyst Review

I am responsible for collating specific data for various monthly reports. Once the data is fully collated, I used it to produce the actual reports, including various visuals to bring the data to life. These reports are shared with stakeholders at varying levels of seniority, including at executives. I am also responsible for looking at ways the handling of data in my team can be improved for future reporting cycles.

I have definitely learnt new skills during my apprenticeship journey. The 5 core modules covered topics that I previously had no experience in, for example, SQL, Python and R coding. I have also learnt valuable dashboarding skills using applications like Power BI and Qlik Sense. This has led me to study these topics in more detail and apply some of what I have learnt in my day to day role.

I have really enjoyed the experience so far. The live modules have provided the opportunity to learn new skills and also use these skills practically, using real world data. It has given me more confidence when dealing with stakeholders, both internally and externally. It has also been great to learn alongside other cohorts that are going through the same experiences as myself and share our progress. The programme has also taught me skills that I have been able to apply at work.

The programme has been structured really well. The study calendar provided at the start of the programme set expectations early on and provided clarity around timescales and dates that were key to progression. Regular catch ups with my Learning and Development Coach have also been scheduled in advance and have allowed me to discuss progress and share any concerns or successes while working through my portfolio and modules.

My employer has been very supportive throughout the apprenticeship programme. So far, I have been able to commit the required amount of time towards working on my portfolio, attending the live modules and also completing on the job training hours. This work is related to the programme and my employer has already seen some of the benefits of the training in my work duties.

I feel the support provided from my training provider has been excellent. Whether this be from my Learning and Development Coach or my tutor in the live modules. I have always felt comfortable enough to reach out for help if I am struggling to understand a specific topic. My coach has also always been very clear on the status of my progress and if I am at the expected stage in terms of portfolio items and KSB requirements.

As previously stated, I have already been able to utilise some of the skills I have learnt during the programme. I have been able improve some of our reporting processes and the data that sits behind them. The have been areas where I have struggled to use some of the new skills, mainly due to the fact that my team do not use databases. This means it hasn't always been easy to practice these in real world scenarios.

At present there are no extra-curricular activities that I get involved in at work. We do have regular team days where we discuss strategies, amongst other topics. These are generally off site at other offices and may involve a certain amount of socialising. However, they are mainly in work hours and used to discuss our deliverables and strategise.

Yes

I have now worked for RSA for 20 years. During this time, I have worked in a number of different areas of the business. I started in Customer Services but have moved on to other opportunities during my career. I have always felt supported, and RSA is very committed to developing its people. This is clearly evidence in their support of apprenticeships around the business. The people I work with day to day have always been one of the better aspects of working at RSA.

My main tip would be to be yourself and bring the best version of you. RSA Ltd is a great employer and will really invest in your success if you are accepted into a role. There are many opportunities to take advantage of, so it's important that you put yourself out there to really make the most of them. As long as you are focussed on delivering good outcomes for our customers, then you can hopefully depend on a long and successful career with them.