Investing into our youth: Get to know our apprentice, Alex!

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on Alex, our sponsored apprentice. He isn’t just pursuing a degree in Business Management, but he is also on a fast track to earning Chartered Manager status. Impressive! 

At CheckedSafe, we believe in investing in the future, and what better way to do that than to nurture young talent? Eighteen months ago, we welcomed Alex to our team as a part-time employee. His enthusiasm and aptitude for the work quickly caught our attention. 

Gary Hawthorne, our Co-Founder, said, “CheckedSafe are proud to be a local company that values our staff. Our people are more than just cogs in a machine; they are the backbone of our operations. That’s why when Alex showed promise while working part-time with us, we didn’t hesitate to explore how we could support his journey. Ultimately, we sponsored Alex to embark on a degree apprenticeship, aligning with our ethos of promoting young talent into the industry.”

But why listen to us talk about Alex? Let’s hear directly from him…

Q. What initially attracted you to this career path?

The idea of getting experience in the industry whilst also gaining valuable qualifications. 

Also, financially, no student debt whilst also earning a full-time wage was a big winner in my books! I’m so excited to begin my career in this industry and want to learn as much as possible.

Q. Exiting! What does your work schedule look like?

So I am at university in 2-day blocks on Mondays and Tuesdays. These 2-day blocks are every 2/3 weeks and the rest of the time I am full time at CheckedSafe. I am also required to do an average of 6 hours of off-the-job training weekly.

Q. Sounds busy! What are your day-to-day responsibilities whilst at work?

Managing leads, managing relationships with customers, managing updates to the system and explaining them to existing and new customers. I also attend trade shows and provide data reports for customers. On top of that, I’m involved in general discussions with my colleagues about the marketing and advertising of the business. 

Q. What impact will this sponsored apprenticeship have on your career?

The opportunity here is so great, I am confident my career is getting a great kickstart because of this. The things I’m learning at university are fascinating, and I’m able to put them into practice immediately during my working days at CheckedSafe. 

Q. So, what is your favourite part of your role at CheckedSafe?

I absolutely love the flexibility in my role. As well as the fact I am working in a great team with great people. I also enjoy being able to go to exhibitions and trade shows with everyone, it’s always a great laugh. 

Q. Can you share the most memorable moment of your time at CheckedSafe?

Without a doubt, when CheckedSafe held our first-ever national Transport Compliance seminar (TCS ‘22) in October last year. It was such a great event and I’m looking forward to helping out with future similar events!

Q. What’s been the hardest part of the apprenticeship so far?

Time management. Managing the time between my working hours as well as having time to do my university work has been a bit of a challenge so far but I’m adjusting well and getting there! I think anyone who has studied an apprenticeship will understand how hard this can be!

Q. What personality traits do you think someone in your role needs to succeed?

They’d need to be hardworking, confident and willing to learn. 

Q. Can you tell us a little about yourself outside of work?

Of course! I would describe myself as a very friendly, outgoing and hardworking person. I spend my spare time going to the gym, playing football and golf, and when possible travelling and exploring new places. 

So there we have it. Hopefully, you’ve got to know Alex a little better. We’re thrilled to have him on board as our now-sponsored apprenticeship, and can’t wait to see him flourish within the role.

For more information or for any questions regarding our CheckedSafe software, drop us a message here or ring us on 01282 908429.