IT Retail PMO Review

Allianz was a great place to work. I gained a strong knowledge of the insurance industry and was allowed to attend several training courses that look great on my CV.

I was treated as another member of the team, not an intern, which was a huge worry of mine and I had the same benefits as other employees who had been at the company for decades

My line manager was key for me experiencing other areas of the business to extend my knowledge, and ultimately make my role more interesting. Due to the nature of their roles, it was sometimes difficult to gain feedback from upper level management.

My days varied depending on when deadlines were due. There was the occasional ad-hoc task that required me to stay a little later, but all extra work was recognised by management.

I was given lots of responsibility. I lead multiple projects and was trusted to run them with very little input. There was the opportunity to take on more or less dependant on how busy I was at ther time.

I picked up many skills regarding project management, as that was the department I was placed in. I have found this very useful for applying for graduate roles also. There were also several complex systems within Microsoft Excel, which I feel enabled me to enhance my skills greatly.

There was a lively, fun atmosphere in the office. People liked my friendly attitude, but still weren't afraid to dish out banter!

The placement was well organised with regards to s specific handover period from the previous placement student. Although I was fortunate, It would be great if more help was issued to enable other students to experience more areas of the business.

Very much so. As I mentioned, I attended several training course and was required to complete a personal development portfolio and performance target review, in which I was graded at the end of the year.

Allianz offer graduate roles in various areas of the business. If you impressed on placement, you are fast-tracked to the assessment centre stage in he recruitment process.

As there were only 11 of us, it was sometimes difficult. However, the role is in Guildford, the location of the University of Surrey, so there are many students and student activities available.

The south was very different to where I am in Newcastle! Guildford is not cheap to go out and rent was expensive.

A few bars and pubs, and also the students union. London is only a small train journey away too.

Allianz offer a sports and social club, offering trips and activities outside of the office. For example, I visited Glorious Goodwood, as well as been offered several free tickets for the Saracens rugby matches!