Ruth recently completed her Level 5 Operational Management apprenticeship, achieving a distinction, the highest possible grade. We caught up with her to learn more about her journey and experiences throughout the apprenticeship. Here’s what she shared with us:
Please tell us a little bit about your current role:
I currently work as a Business Centre Manager within Essex County Council’s Business Support Function. I manage a large team of admin staff who provide administrative support to different functions in ECC such as Adults and Children’s Social Care and Education. Much of my work involves staff resourcing, ensuring we have the right staff on the right work at the right time. Managing specific workstreams. Ensuring my staff are fully supported to do their roles effectively and efficiently and being involved with various projects to improve how Business Support Operates.
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?
I decided to do an apprenticeship for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I was about to turn 40 and having spent the last 10 years putting my family first and raising a young daughter. I felt that it was time to invest in myself and my future. Also, I have been a manager for many years but have always learnt on the job – never having had any formal qualifications. I felt that an apprenticeship would allow me to learn whilst I was still doing my job, be able to improve my skills and knowledge in management and invest in myself for my future.
What are your career goals?
In the future, I’d like to develop into either Operational Management or Talent Development within the council. I am taking a break from studying at the moment, but I am considering a Coaching course in the future as I think this would help to broaden my skills in Operational Management and Talent Development.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship?
I would 100% recommend an apprenticeship to anyone that asked me about it. It has been by far the hardest thing I’ve studied for but the most rewarding. I have been able to learn practical methods and models that directly help me in my current role and that will set me up for my future career. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but I believe that the effort you put in is rewarded back to you.
What is one thing you are proud of?
I’m proud of 2 things connected with this course. Firstly, I had to pass Maths Functional Skills before I could start my ILM Operational Management Level 5 course. This was a huge obstacle for me to overcome and pass as I’ve struggled with numbers for my whole life. Passing my exams in this first time was an incredible personal achievement for me. Secondly, achieving a distinction in my ILM. At times I thought that I’d be lucky to get a pass but I with lots of hard work, support from my tutor, and dedication I was thrilled to be awarded with the highest grade possible.
What do you like doing outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy cooking, baking, films, walking my dog, spending time with my family, playing racket ball, watching most sports live or on the TV and being creative whether that be drawing, painting or doing some crafts with my daughter.
We would like to congratulate Ruth on her amazing result and all the hard work she has put in throughout her apprenticeship. If Ruth’s story has inspired you, take a look at our apprenticeship offer or give our team a call on 03330 139 502 or email acl.businessdevelopment@essex.gov.uk
