Programme Management Officer Review

by NatWest

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7/10

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

I am responsible for the day-to-day governance of change related projects. I monitor the risks, issues, dependencies and assumptions, alongside the reporting of project milestones and financials. I support project managers to ensure they are adhering to internal governance requirements.

8/10

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

Yes. A key focus in on communication and the presentation of key details to ensure this is meeting governance standards. Additionally, I have expanded my knowledge of excel through the regular management of project/programmes budgets. Outsourced courses have also been available i.e. SAFe

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the on the job training and the allowance given to apprentices to expand their knowledge during study time.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Fairly good. The programme study material from BPP is organised however the organisation of on the job training is lacking.

4/10

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

My employer is very encouraging of our study time however, unlike more recent cohorts we were not given a buddy or support system to ask for guidance.

6/10

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

the training provider has been very helpful in ensuring our qualification is reachable and contributes to the job we are learning to do.

8/10

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

the apprenticeship has allowed me to join in a field I wouldn't necessarily be knowledgeable to enter. However, the information gain from the apprenticeship is very generalised and not always relevant.

6/10

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.)

yes - I am part of a cohort of employees who organise these activities but they are not very well established for apprentices.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend NatWest to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

there are a number of departments within the bank and each one is different

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to NatWest?

Ensure you use your study time wisely and do not underestimate additional work required outside of work to achieve the qualifications you aim for.