Compliance Apprentice Review

Day-to-day I am responsible for assisting with reviews that compliance monitoring do, this is where a certain area is audited to ensure that the was they are operating is compliant with the relevant regulations that are in place. I am also responsible: maintaining the teams files records and review index, minuting meetings and sending actions to people, suggesting improvements in processes that are reviewed and testing/assessing sets of data for weaknesses.

From this apprenticeship it has taught me the ability to be able to listen to discussions and extract the key information that is spoken about whilst recording it for reference when considering review scopes. It's taught the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively as the compliance team audit a range of areas within the business so getting the correct information from the right people is important. Finally, its improved stakeholder management, which has led to better people skills and confidence.

I have not long started this apprenticeship, but so far I am enjoying what I am doing. I enjoy both the compliance role as well as the environment that I work in, its very laid back approach allowing me to work independently and build knowledge and understanding through exposure to real life practices.

The programme is well structured, I get 6 hour a week included in my contract hours for studying the 'qualification aspect' and the rest of the time in my contract is spent either upskilling my knowledge through meetings, interactions with stakeholders or applying my knowledge to real workplace situations. The balance between studying the 'theory' and being able to actually apply my learning is enjoyable as I feel like I'm learning, earning and applying my skills that I've acquired.

My employer provides a good level of support, if I ever have any questions subject related then anyone from my team is always more than happy to help me if needed. However, they balance to much interaction with independence in my opinion giving the perfect blend of support and allowing me to problem solve, innovate and think for myself. SJP are very supportive of the apprenticeship scheme providing good opportunities to fulfil my gain from this scheme.

I have recently started studying towards my professional qualification in compliance, I have been assigned a 'subject expert' who I have one-to-one reviews with to see how I'm getting on with my studying, any help that is needed or any subject related questions that I have. The support provided by my training provider is thorough and adequate to what I require, this level of support allows me to be curious about my subject and gain a better understanding of confusing areas.

My qualification and role go hand in hand, being a compliance apprentice and studying towards a professional compliance qualification means that all the theory/knowledge I learn through the educational element of the apprenticeship can be applied and developed to real work examples. It also allows me to have a good understanding of the content that I study, so I don't feel like I'm studying for a completely unrelated qualification.

There are a range of extra curricular activities from skills workshops, networking opportunities and social events such as team lunches and Christmas parties. The social life at SJP is the perfect balance between a professional working environment and being able to be social with people from my team and just in general around the office. It makes work an enjoyable environment!

Yes

Its an environment that is brilliant to begin work life, SJP like to ensure that a balance between work and social life is maintained. In the time that I've been here I've already started to develop professional skills and personal skills also. Most importantly, the opportunities here are endless whether it be gaining professional qualifications, personal development or promotion chances.

Make sure that you go to careers evenings and find the SJP stand where you will be able to hear face-to-face from someone who works in the business about what to expect and their personal experiences. I would also personally recommend that you should start the application process from the earliest point possible, the process is quite robust and lengthy including video interviews, face-to-face interview, filling out questions and then an assessment day. Finally, when going to these interviews make sure you are prepared with knowledge about SJP and to help more, get a level of understanding about what you'll be doing although its not expected you'll have a thorough understanding.