Digital & Technology Solutions Apprentice Review

I work within the Technology Chief Operating Office, in data management. My current role focuses on people, culture, departmental operations and more. No two days are the same, some days I have technical projects to manage such as automating distribution lists and managing user authorizations, and other days I organize events, assist with recruitment and onboarding of new joiners.

I have developed my time management and collaborative skills since beginning my apprenticeship- due to the nature of my work requiring input and collaboration with colleagues very often. I have learnt how to be more innovative by working on technical projects too.

So far I have really enjoyed my apprenticeship. I've made lots of new valuable connections and expanded my transferable skillset, and have grown tremendously as an individual over the last 6 months. However, there are times where it can be difficult managing work and study, and it does not always feel like the support in place is sufficient when things get a little difficult. Regardless, I would recommend the programme to anyone.

We are given one day a week to study towards our degree qualification, and the other four days are spent working. It is a little hard to balance at first, but with time it gets easier and I enjoy the structure as there is a larger emphasis on work rather than studying. 20% of the week is spent studying, the other 80% is spent working.

Majority of the time, I have received a lot of support from my colleagues, such as my mentor, my Apprentice buddies, and local manager. The apprenticeships team could be more supportive in some instances and provide more guidance when it's needed. Sometimes you're left to figure things out alone.

We are given a university mentor who supports us during the course of our qualification, and regularly check up to ensure all is well. There is also a support team specifically for our programme which are very helpful and quick to respond to any queries, no matter what they may be.

Since my role is not inherently technical, what I am studying does not always link directly to my work. Regardless, learning things like python, SQL and even business organization have been helpful- as they are used occasionally in the data management space.

We have various societies and an internal Apprentice network which provide plenty of opportunities to us such as networking, social events like dinners and other fun things.

Yes

It's a great company with a good work culture and good people around you. The benefits prorgram offered is excellent and you get treated well as an employee. There are loads of opportunities and facilities available to employees that you wouldn't get elsewhere- definitely recommend!

Research the 3 keys really well, stay up to date with UBS' goals and current affairs (eg; the integration with Credit Suisse). Know your CV inside and out and show a willingness to learn and be a team player- the company wants people who can and will contribute to it's overall success. And of course, be yourself!