Our apprenticeship scheme offers young, talented individuals the opportunity to learn on the job whilst earning a qualification and a salary.
We spoke to Programme Support Officer and Ex-Apprentice, Freya Sloane, to find out how our apprenticeship scheme has helped shape her career to date.
What was your apprentice role and how did you get involved?
I joined M&G as a PMO Analyst Apprentice, working in the Project Management Office (PMO) department. My role involved setting standards for work and processes within the Investments Change department and supporting on reporting and governance to various stakeholders. As part of my apprenticeship, I studied the Association for Project Management (APM) qualification.
I was drawn to M&G's apprenticeship scheme when I first attended M&G’s office for an open afternoon, where I learnt that M&G’s values aligned with mine in areas such as support, growth and the focus on sustainable investments, all of which were important to me as a young professional.
What is your favourite part of your role?
The apprenticeship scheme has helped me blossom into a young professional, learning about project management methodologies and proactively using these in my day-to-day role, but also learning soft skills when working with people and building my network. I have been fortunate enough to meet many colleagues within my organisation and at networking events whom I consider as mentors and friends.
Wearing the apprentice 'badge' has been an honour as I’ve been able to meet young people nationally to share my story and demystify school leaver programmes. Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity, and I’ve been keen to highlight to young people the need for a passion and desire to learn as an apprentice, because you will face obstacles through your journey, and this requires resilience.
How do you balance work and study, and how does your team and the business support you with this?
I’ve been able to dedicate 20% of my week to study towards my qualification, which I choose to allocate as one day of my working week. This allowed consistency in my schedule, so my colleagues and key stakeholders knew when I was available.
How do you see yourself progressing at M&G?
I’m looking forward to growing in my job and discovering new opportunities and challenges in my day-to-day role as I become more experienced. The joy of working in change and project management is that no two days are the same, and every day I am learning. There are clear responsibilities and objectives set for me, so I feel accountable for my progression.
What are your favourite memories with M&G so far?
Seeing my progression from being a new apprentice in 2021, to being offered a permanent role at the end of last year, was a true "pinch me" moment and a proud milestone in my life. Being able to reflect on my progress and map out where I see myself next is exciting. I have many fond memories since joining M&G, including Christmas socials, spending time after work with my fellow apprentice cohort and not to forget delicious bake offs in the office.
What advice would you give to school leavers interested in applying for apprenticeships?
I would advise school leavers to spread their wings and take every opportunity available to them. Have confidence in yourself, stretch yourself and put your best foot forward. Apprenticeship schemes can be a competitive application process, so prepare as much as you can and shoot for the stars!