Name: Lauren Carroll

Current Placement: Level 7 Senior People Professional, Mitchell & Butler’s

Apprenticeship: Level 5 HR Consultant and Vocational Learning Attraction Manager apprenticeship

I joined Mitchell & Butler’s 5 years ago as Vocational Learning Attraction Manager, marketing Mitchell & Butler’s 24 apprenticeship standards to internal employees and potential recruits.

Why did you decide to start an apprenticeship?

With no previous experience in HR, I felt my knowledge of the broader HR function was limited, with no formal qualifications to put theory into practise. Working in the apprentice team, I decided to practise what I preach and started a Level 5 HR Consultant apprenticeship to gain a solid grounding across HR disciplines and meet HR professionals from different backgrounds to share best practise.

Despite being furloughed, I achieved my apprenticeship 2 months ahead of schedule. Eager to learn more, I progressed onto Level 7 Senior People Professional as one of the first in the UK to join the programme!

What have been the benefits of your apprenticeship programmes?

Since starting my apprenticeships, I have gained a clear understanding of areas of HR I can increase my exposure to, tailoring my day-to-day role accordingly. I now utilise best practise gained from meeting other organisations to explore our own practices: most recently, reinvigorating our communications. The apprenticeship has taught me to look at HR more strategically, with the opportunity to work on projects to further my understanding whilst benefiting M&B too.

What are your proudest moments?

I’ve really enjoyed my time on programme, and was ecstatic to be recognised by our HR Director and L&D Director as a Rising Star in 2020 for my commitment to progressing through my apprenticeship, and also winning Higher Level Apprentice of the Year in The West Midlands region of the National Apprenticeship Awards.

How do you showcase the benefits of apprenticeships to others?

My current role and experience on the apprenticeship programmes allows me to influence early careers, advocating apprenticeships to help our employees develop to their full potential. I love showcasing the path to a career is not always linear, and an apprenticeship at any stage can help grow a broad skillset. As an apprentice role-model within the business, I have actively encouraged 6 HR colleagues to begin HR apprenticeship, certain the knowledge gained will support and improve the HR department. I truly believe apprenticeships are for everyone!