Management Consulting Apprentice Review

My role as a Management Consultant Apprentice differs depending on the project I am working on but generally it involves supporting a wider team in internal Consulting for the 1st year. During the 2nd year, the role becomes client-facing. Currently, I act as an account driver which means I am responsible for helping with account management and bid management. Some common tasks include creating slide decks, creating newsletters, analysing account performance, reviewing our pipeline of opportunities, supporting bid teams and developing ideas for our internal microsite.

I have learnt how to navigate new platforms such as Salesforce. I have also learnt about the bid process and through supporting bid teams, I have a good understanding of the process. I have developed my communication skills through frequently using a variety of channels to communicate with new people and teams.

I really enjoy my programme as it has given me great exposure to the sector I work in and I know there are even more opportunities to learn about different areas of the business. Being aware I can get involved with a wide range of work makes me excited to find something I enjoy. The people are also very welcoming and supportive. My Manager on my first project has made the experience very enjoyable for me as I have been given the support I need whilst also being independent and free to prioritise my work as I see fit. The company is also very flexible, which allows me to work in ways I find the most productive.

The programme is well-structured in the sense we work internally in the first year and in the second year, we work with clients. Additionally, we have periods where we study and there are clear deadlines and college days outlined around this. However, I would say the second year appears to be less rigid in the way we are resourced onto client-facing work but can be a positive concept as it allows us to find our own projects to work on. The study aspect isn't as well organised as the training college aren't the most organised and rather than spread the study and coursework over longer periods of time, we have to study for exams in shorter periods of time.

There is lots of support from my employer. We have a 'buddy' who is someone who is in a similar position to us to help us ease into the company and answer any questions. For me, this is an apprentice in the year above. We also have a contact from our base office who oversees our career development and supports us to explore our passions within the business. As a whole, everyone in the company is very kind and always offers to help.

We have a talent coach who we have periodic check ins with. This is useful to update our progress with them and ask any questions we have. We have tutors who teach us the content. However, there could be more support from the training college as our communication with those who manage our course is limited.

The content we learn is relevant to the company I work in due to the general teachings around ethics, business structure, financial accounting and other useful topics. This also contributes to my role as an account driver as I now have an understanding of how our business operates, key business terms and financial documents. However, there are some more basic aspects that don't correlate to my current daily role but could be useful for the future.

We have different networks which allows you to connect with others based on similar beliefs or interests. I sometimes attend Women in Tech events which is an inspiring initiative around the breakthroughs women make in the Tech industry. There are also various faith and inclusion networks, sports teams and activities people can engage in such as badminton.

Yes

They are a well-rounded company who support their employees and the people are genuine. The business is also very large, covering a wide range of geographies and sectors meaning the scope of work is endless, allowing you to discover your passions. There is also the benefit of flexible working which empowers us to work in ways that motivate us most.

I would advise you go through the website to understand who PwC really are and what our mission is. You should also look at examples of where and how we have worked to see the scope of work we have to offer and what inspires you. If you apply with passion, this will come through the process.