Hendrik Pontson

I really enjoyed my time on the Graduate Scheme. The variety of experiences across departments gave me the perfect start for a career in Higher Education. While at times it felt like a roller-coaster, I would gladly go on that ride again.

My first placement was in Strategy and Policy – International. I gained experience in data analysis and visualisation using Tableau and Excel. I wrote a report on the University's International data and developed a training package for the Tableau data analysis software.

My other placement was in Change Management at the WMG (Warwick Manufacturing Group). I redesigned the WMG departments Business Continuity Plans (design, workshops, working with departmental colleagues and central University). Additionally, I was working on the Space Management project (3,000+ assets), Information Asset Register (Outcomes were taken forward to central University) and the new Visitor Management System.

The support was amazing throughout the scheme. Colleagues were always very kind and understanding. I never really felt like I couldn't go to somebody, whether that was to talk about something work-related, latest trips and holidays, or complain about the weather over a hot cup of coffee. I can definitely say that I enjoyed each moment of the scheme. There is so much going on within the different areas of the University of Warwick, and despite getting experience in 2 different departments, I feel like I've only scratched the surface of the number of fascinating projects taking place behind the scenes.

After the scheme, I completed my National Service at the Estonian Defence Forces and then returned to work at Warwick as a Projects Officer in Information & Digital Group.