• Name
    Humza
  • Job Title and Employer
    Sales Manager Apprentice
  • Employer
    IRI Worldwide
  • Provider
    University of West London
  • Levels
    Level 6 (Higher) Apprenticeship
  • Training Provider and Qualification
    Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship
  • Occupations
    Managerial
  • Apprenticeship Start Date
    Sep 2020
  • Skills Gained
    Communication Commercial acumen Presentation skills Project management Account management
  • What are your interests outside of work?

    Outside of my apprenticeship, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I’ve been lucky enough to make some great friends from working as an Apprentice at IRI. I am always open to adventure, so I love trying new things. I love travelling and exploring different countries and cultures. Another passion is technology, so you will always find me testing a new gadget.

GetMyFirstJob Ambassador

Hello, I Am Humza

I decided to go for an apprenticeship as it gave me a hands on approach to learning; it was important to me to understand and learn in the moment.

Tell us more about your experience

Sitting in the commercial team of IRI every day is different, with so much to learn. The primary purpose of my role is to support delivering growth across clients and to IRI as a business. This is in the form of providing insight consultancy, training, or simply providing the right solution. The best part of my role as an apprentice is that I am exposed to all business areas ranging from finance, marketing, and sales!

The most exciting project I have worked with IRI on was a collaboration insight delivery project with a strategic supplier and retailer. The project was focused on analysing performance following a significant change in category. I led the project that helped drive suppliers’ relationship with the retailer and created actionable insight resulting in a published case study. 

My proudest moment so far has been my involvement with IRI's DEI innovative. The project allowed me to mentor and help develop young talent from disadvantaged backgrounds. Part of the project was sharing the work with the whole business in a town hall, which felt great knowing IRI supports apprentices presenting back to such a large audience. The project's impact was significant and has been further developed into ongoing initiatives.

‘’Before applying, think about the sectors that appeal to you and what roles you can use for within them’’.

I would advise candidates to really think about why they are going for an apprenticeship - do you know the opportunity cost of not going to university? You might miss out on experiences with friends, but you will get a qualification and earn money whilst developing a career. Your job role at most companies will likely be dynamic, but your industry is an essential part of your work life.

Apprenticeships are highly competitive as there is plenty of young talent. I applied and was rejected countless times before getting an offer, so don’t give up! Everything happens for a reason. I remember missing out on a role I really wanted and thought it was the end of the world, but now I am far better off. Patience and persistence are vital.

I am so grateful for my employer IRI who have been outstanding throughout my apprenticeship journey. IRI has supported me by giving me the flexibility and freedom to explore my role and pursue my own agenda. The biggest help has been the network of other IRI apprentices and early career professionals who are always willing to support. IRI offers flexible working, time off for charity pursuits and has a great culture that has allowed me to grow.

Interested in becoming an ambassador? Find out more!

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