Over my eight-year tenure at IQUW, my role as a Pricing Manager has undergone a significant transformation. Beginning by managing personal lines of business, like classic cars and motorhomes, I’ve now shifted gears towards being heavily involved in the evolution of our industry-leading products, blending traditional pricing approaches with cutting edge AI. It’s an exciting and ever-changing job that demands a strong commitment to ongoing growth and development.

Embracing the opportunity

Thanks to IQUW’s unwavering commitment to continuous learning and the support provided through the Apprenticeship Levy, I had the invaluable opportunity to embark on an apprenticeship programme. Starting in October 2020, I embarked on a two-year journey dedicated to honing essential workplace competencies and pursuing a highly regarded Master of Science (MSc) degree in Applied Data Science from the University of Buckingham.

Commitment is key when it comes to endeavours like these. Setting aside one day per week for the apprenticeship programme alongside my regular job was a significant time commitment. However, the support I received from the business was invaluable. They understood the long-term benefits of investing in my growth and development, and their support made all the difference. It gave me the motivation and assurance to navigate the challenges and fully embrace this opportunity.

The impact of the programme

For me, the apprenticeship programme has been win-win. Not only have I personally grown and gained new skills, but it’s also had an immediate positive impact on our business. Armed with my newfound knowledge, I played a pivotal role in the design and development of the new ratings engine, pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible.

Undertaking the MSc in data science has not only significantly enhanced my knowledge and technical abilities but has also provided me with the renewed confidence and authority to navigate complex subject matter. Moreover, the exposure to a variety of cutting-edge data analysis tools has greatly amplified the efficiency and effectiveness of my work, further bolstering my confidence and proficiency in the field.

Juggling parenthood and achievement

As if the apprenticeship journey wasn’t challenging enough, my fifth child arrived in January 2022, adding an extra layer of excitement and chaos to my already demanding schedule. But with the unwavering support of my family and the understanding of my colleagues, I managed to strike a balance and prove that personal growth is achievable even amidst the joys and challenges of parenthood!

Ultimately, my experience with the IQUW apprenticeship programme has been nothing short of transformative. It has propelled my professional growth, opened doors to exciting new possibilities, and reaffirmed IQUW’s commitment to investing in the future of its employees. So, a big thank you to IQUW for providing this structured pathway for continuous learning and skills enhancement. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity, and I can’t wait to see how this journey will positively impact my career trajectory and contribute to the overall success of our company.

Tom benefitted from IQUW’s apprenticeship programme, which offers the chance for selected employees from across the organisation to embark on intensive education and development opportunities.