My graduate journey so far

My background and journey

I attended the University of Liverpool studying Business Management with a year in industry, here is where I decided I would like to pursue a career in HR due to the modules I studied.

Why I applied for a DWF graduate scheme

I applied for the DWF graduate scheme as I thought that the rotational aspect of the scheme would be really beneficial, I knew I would like to work in HR but I did not know which specific area and this graduate scheme allows me to experience all aspects to help decide where I would like to progress. I felt this would be a very valuable experience and allow me to understand the whole lifecycle of HR and this is something not everyone would be lucky enough to do.

My career journey so far at DWF as a graduate

As part of the graduate scheme I am completing my Level 5 CIPD qualification which is another reason as to why I applied as this is something I have wanted to complete to further enhance my career in HR and I am able to do this through the support of DWF.

Since joining DWF, I have been lucky enough to develop multiple skills through my colleagues and managers putting their trust in me. I feel my confidence has developed massively since starting and I have been able to do this through the responsibility and opportunities given to me, for example, leading meetings with external benefit suppliers isn't something I thought I would have the confidence to do.

Support and training I have received

The support I have received during the graduate scheme has been exceptional with a dedicated supervisor I have felt very supported. We have bi-weekly catch ups which I find very useful as it is a time to discuss the positives and also the concerns without having to speak to your manager if you may not feel comfortable.

Within the first weeks of joining DWF I was enrolled into an excel course to improve my skills which I have found very beneficial. There are also multiple webinars and training on the DWF Academy which can be helpful to improve all different skills.

Opportunities I have had

Since joining DWF I have been presented with numerous opportunities which have been great experience and helped me develop. This includes helping support the annual Rubies Awards, the launch of the benefit platform into Ireland and the relaunch of the BAYE share plan in the UK and Spain a long with the launch into the US. I have had the chance to help the Recruitment team source candidates and I was able to source a successful candidate which is a great feeling! Additionally, I am currently responsible for coordinating and managing the implementation of a new benefit, something which I did not think I'd be able to do this soon into the scheme! More recently, I am also getting involved with the implementation of a new pre-employment check process. A long with all this, a side from work I have become a Wellbeing Champion and joined the Wellbeing sub-committee to help drive wellbeing initiatives.

How will this scheme help develop my career

This scheme will allow me to develop as I am able to experience all aspects of HR giving me a well-rounded view of the profession, a long with the learning from the CIPD qualification.