Alexis Drake is the Senior Marketing Manager at ICAEW. Alexis tells us her employer apprenticeship story and what it’s been like for her company to take on an Level 3 Marketing Assistant Apprentice.
Can you tell us a little bit about your company?
ICAEW is a global professional body for chartered accountants and provide training and memberships. We ensure all our chartered accountants have the knowledge and values to help build local and global economies that are sustainable, accountable and fair.
What were your reasons for taking on an apprentice?
Apprentices are typically highly engaged, willing to learn and committed members of the workforce. We also wanted the opportunity to help develop the apprentices into the roles at a slower pace in line with their studies.
Can you see progression in your apprentice’s workplace skills due to the programme?
Definitely. What strikes me most about Grace is her adaptability, willingness to learn new things and speed at which she picks up new concepts. She has also started to implement what she’s learned into real-world tactical marketing campaigns, which has increased her confidence and ability to lead on projects, and has meant I can pass her more responsibility.
How did you find working with Oxford Professional Education as the training provider?
OXPE have been flexible and always offer help and support where they can to Grace. When she was faced with a family grievance, they immediately put in measures to help Grace with deadlines. They keep in good contact with ICAEW and the flexibility of the programme is a definite benefit for working people.
What advice would you give to an apprentice?
I wouldn’t hesitate. It’s the classic win-win situation where everybody benefits. Investing in employees’ knowledge is one of the best investments a company can make, and the Levy is there for a reason – so use it!
Oxford Professional Education is a main provider of apprenticeships. We help a range of organisations find suitable apprentices and provide training for the qualifications. If you are interested in taking on an apprentice, get in touch with our team to find out how we can help.