The MOST Spring/Summer 2021

THE ASSOCIATE PROJECT MANAGER (APM) What is an APM? The majority of businesses will, at some point, work on an extensive project or task which will take a considerable amount of time, resource and dedication from their team members. Depending on the magnitude of the project in hand will determine how much work and effort is put in; affecting the overall outcome. An APM will take lead and manage the project to ensure its success. They will understand what needs to be achieved, how it will be achieved, how long it will take and how much it will cost and they will work with the project team to achieve the required outcomes. Associate Project Managers need good planning, organisation, leadership, management and communication skills and will utilise resources with their skills, qualifications, experience and knowledge. You may have a current staff member in mind to take on this role through upskilling, or you could hire a new member of staff. What is classed as a ‘project’? A project can be anything which has a start and an end point…. > You might want to review your operating systems and equipment in the workplace > Maybe you’re going paperless and you need to work out the impact of this on your business operations > You might have a huge amount of staff working different shift patterns and you would like to review how this is carried out > Or do you have a need for something new in your business and you would like a member of your team to review your options? The above sounds good… but how will I be supported? Our tutors bring a wealth of experience in helping organisations develop and progress with their projects. This APM apprenticeship is intense in nature and it delivers in high output for your business ideas, turning what sometimes is a ‘nice to have’ into a reality. Whatever your project, we will work with your managers, employees or project leaders to ensure that the apprenticeship content supports your projects, giving your team the tools and training they need to effectively run a project from its inception. What the employers say: Louis Clementson , Head Of Programme, Positive Solutions Limited “The tutor has been an excellent tutor, knowledgeable, approachable, engaging and empathetic with the ability to relate to real world examples. She has done a fantastic job especially as Covid-19 forced us to move most of the training online!” Miss Tracey Jones, People Development Facilitator, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust “The tutor has been a great support to all of us individually allowing us to share any concerns or needs.” Justine Westwell, Planning & Corporate Reporting Manager, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council “I’ve been very pleased with the course and Claresse and the tutor keep me up to speed with what she needs to do well.” What the apprentice says: The APM apprenticeship Level 4 is a fantastic qualification to undertake, it has given me so many new skills that I can now apply in to my daily working life with projects that I am involved in. The tools and techniques that I have learnt have been invaluable and something that I will be able to use forever. The tutor support I received only enhanced my experience of this course, I felt like the course material was taught in a way that was relevant to my working life which made the content easier to understand. Achieving this qualification has opened up opportunities for me to develop further in my career and have already been lucky enough to secure a promotion, something that I will always be grateful for. Caroline Ellis, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust Caroline completed her Associate Project Manager apprenticeship in January 2021. | 36 APM apprentice Claresse with her Manager at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council