Hi, my name is Muhammad Khan and I am a Team Leader for Ethernet Delivery.
This consists of providing dedicated fibre lines to small to medium businesses and seeing their order through to provision. I also deal with performance management, development of individuals as well as continuously improving our approach to the work stack.
I saw an apprenticeship as a good way to start my career given all the positive reviews I’d seen on how apprentices are supported in their development. This gave me the confidence to apply for an apprenticeship with BT as I knew I would appreciate the support whilst being able to aim as high as I possibly could.
I was actually nominated for the second apprenticeship by my General Manager – Martin Williams.
After completing my first apprenticeship (Customer Services – Level 3), I joined the Future Leaders programme (Team Leader / Supervisor Level 3 Diploma) and having completed this I had a conversation with my GM in which I made it known that I was interested in further studies and this is how the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) came along.
This is a first for an assimilated apprentice to be going into another apprenticeship – no pressure! I’m excited to enhance my knowledge throughout the apprenticeship and looking forward to growing through the challenges that will come along with it.
Having been off of work for a few months with Covid, I heard about the Reverse Mentoring Scheme on my return to work from a BT wide update. I reached out to Alison Wilcox letting her know that I LOVED the idea and that it’d be great to take part as I’d missed the initial intake. This kicked off a chain reaction and the team managed to squeeze me in – gratefully!
My first meeting was on 25/11 and I really am looking forward to sharing my personal experiences in life with a senior manager with the aim of hopefully improving how we view delicate topics as a company. This is a small step in the right direction and I’m glad to be a part of it.
My proudest achievement to date would be winning the South East Regional Apprenticeship award whilst also managing to win the National Highly Commended award. It just goes to show what can be achieved if you put your mind to it and these were the two catalysts of my career which propelled me into management. This would not have been possible without the great people I had around me at the time.
Interesting question! I’d expect to have more experience as a manager within the company by then. This would help provide the extra layer to my degree in terms of on the job experience and in turn this should allow me to make more of a calculated decision.
Ultimately, my main goal is to continue learning and I’d love to keep climbing the ranks throughout this process as this would enhance my learning for sure.
