I don’t think any of us expected to have the kind of year we are having – I certainly did not. I worked for a Global brewer, managing a great team of people who sold beverages to UK pubs/clubs (I know you’re thinking that was an easy job!). To be made redundant in June was a shock, however I was delighted to be offered and accept a job as Programme Liaison Manager for the WCCF.
I started the role in September and was immediately busy with involvement in Virtual Assessment Centres for the Fast-Track Data AI programme starting in January 2021, arranging Rotation 3 virtual network events for each employer and then matching graduates in their Rotation 3 placements. I’m delighted that we have been able to accommodate both graduate and employers preferences for this final, important 8 months.
I have recently met with all the Financial Services Graduates – virtually of course, and this has been probably been the most enjoyable part of my role so far. Getting to know them better and offering support and guidance where I can to help their wellbeing, performance, academic achievement and overall success, gives me a great sense of job satisfaction.
A key aim of the Programme is to help all our graduates secure permanent roles that match their career aspirations – we have an amazing 98% achievement track record in this regard so the bar is set high for us to support our financial services graduates entering into their last rotation from January.
My other priority will be to ensure that our new cohort of Fast-Track Data/AI graduates are supported during their 8 month whirlwind programme and I’m excited to work with them and their employers & university to help all maximise this unique experience.
To supplement the support that we are offering, I have arranged for a career coach to work with the graduates in February on career resilience, CV and interview technique which will fully prepare them for when they start to apply for positions towards the end of the Programme.
I wish everyone a good Christmas and am confident that next year will be a more interactive year where we can a ctually meet people and perhaps even enjoy a good summer holiday wherever we choose. 😊