PR Apprenticeships at FTI Consulting #NAW23
FTI Consuting believe that diverse perspectives, diverse experiences and diverse starting points make for better client outcomes – and also a better firm. As a result, they took a step in their Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging journey with the launch of the FTI Strategic Communications Apprenticeship Programme. The programme's aim being to expand access to their firm and our industry for individuals who choose not to – or cannot – follow a university education path. Now four months into their programme, the FTI PR Apprentices are thriving! In honour of National Apprenticeship Week 2023, we did a Q&A with them and their managers to hear about their experiences so far.
"As an Early Talent Recruiter, I believe apprenticeships offer real value to both students and employers. As an employer, we are looking to attract the brightest young talent from a variety of backgrounds to allow wider access to the communications industry. Apprenticeships can also offer a huge amount to young people starting their professional careers, as it enables them to develop an unparalleled knowledge of the business, whilst also giving them the chance to build their professional network right from the beginning. This can ultimately lead to more creative solutions, greater efficiencies, better decision making and innovation for the business." Neha Shah, Early Talent Recruiting Manager, EMEA
The apprentices were asked...
- What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day role?
"I really enjoy the variety of projects I get to work on, the interesting clients and the people at FTI. Every day there is something new to learn and a whole load of opportunities for me to further my career in PR and communications." Claudia De Michiel, Apprentice, International Campaigns & Issues Management – Strategic Communications
- What has been your favourite part of the scheme so far?
"My favourite aspect of the programme so far has been the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on work experience. My first four months have been enjoyable and it’s great that we get the chance to network with other PRCA apprentices as well as our new colleagues at FTI Consulting. Overall I believe this is an excellent opportunity for me to develop my self-confidence and build key skills that will help me in my career in Public Relations and Communications." Evie Scott, Apprentice, Financials - Strategic Communications
- Do you know what career path you want to take after the apprenticeship?
"The apprenticeship has been great so far and I’ve particularly enjoyed learning more about digital communications and social media. In the future, I hope to further my sector-specific knowledge and work in motorsport communications, as I’ve always been interested in racing! I’m getting access to a range of experts at FTI who support communications for major companies, and all with different stakeholders and audiences to engage. It’s a good to start my journey." Abbie Carlton, Apprentice, Digital & Insights - Strategic Communications
We asked their managers...
- What has your apprentice brought to the team?
"Claudia has brought great positive energy into our team, both in the application of her work and fitting in culturally into the team. She brings fantastic enthusiasm and hard work to a very busy team and we're grateful for all her efforts." Matt Day, Director, International Campaigns & Issues Management – Strategic Communications
- What advice would you give to those considering an apprentice?
"Hiring and onboarding an apprentice will be different to the usual position-filling process and an employer must recognise this beforehand. Prior to bringing an apprentice onboard, an employer should carefully consider how a programme of this nature will benefit the individual as much as it will benefit the business. And when thinking about the benefits, the employer should take into account how the apprentice might be shaped as an employee and a person in addition to the skills they will gain." Izzy Ashe, Senior Consultant, Financials – Strategic Communications
- What do you think of the apprenticeship scheme so far?
"As a manager, it's been a really rewarding experience seeing our aspiring apprentices integrate and immerse themselves into the team and life in a communications role. Seeing first-hand the value that on-the-job experience is bringing to both their professional growth and personal development while they learn has been highly stimulating for us both." Verity Nacer, Director, Digital & Insights Practice – Strategic Communications
The PRCA delivers the Higher PR & Communications Assistant Standard, with the structured support of the Level 4 Diploma in PR. Both are nationally recognised. Flexible in structure, employers can tailor the Diploma using optional units to suit the needs of the business. Learners are placed in the workplace and complete on-the-job training and assessment. Click here to find out more about the PR Apprenticeship programme.