Zurich's apprenticeship programme grows three-fold – with a quarter of vacancies in Swindon

Swindon-based insurance giant Zurich says it has boosted its apprenticeship programme three-fold over the past 24 months as it gears up to recruit the next generation of industry talent.

With over 40 roles on offer across ten teams, the insurer has expanded the range of opportunities available as it seeks to build on its digital and automation expertise.

Skills including AI, automation and data analytics are in short demand, according to the firm.

The announcement is timed to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from February 7 to 11.

Applications for the Zurich scheme are open until February 20.

As demand for digital and tech skills continues to surge, Zurich has launched new programmes in data analytics, continuous improvement and automation alongside a degree apprenticeship in data science.

The qualification was designed by Zurich in partnership with the University of Winchester.

Apprentices on the course will use state-of-the-art machine learning to revolutionise customer experiences. On completion, they will graduate with a BSc in data science.

These opportunities are offered in addition to a wide range of career paths spanning underwriting, operations and IT, engineering, finance and customer service. Open to applicants of all ages, school leavers are actively encouraged to secure places as they kick-start their careers. Zurich UK is also partnering with the BYP Network, a network founded to actively connect young black professionals with career opportunities.

The insurer will be hosting a webinar for interested candidates with Career Map on 11 Feb.

Candidates can access an interview practice tool before they apply, using interactive, gamification-style cognitive tests. There are also hints and tips on improving performance in video interviews to help applicants showcase their skills.

Zurich UK’s apprenticeship scheme has been running since 2014 and this year will offer posts lasting from 12 months to three years. Places are available across the UK including London, Fareham, Glasgow, Birmingham, Swindon and Cardiff.

Alongside its Early in Careers programme, Zurich has recently announced an investment of over £1m to future-proof its workforce as technology transforms the insurance industry. Employees from across the business are being upskilled in areas such as AI and automation.

Michelle Ransome, talent acquisition manager at Zurich UK said, “As a major UK employer, we’re incredibly excited about our 2022 apprenticeship programme. The insurance industry offers many career opportunities including data analytics and automation right through to underwriting, engineering and customer service. Successfully completing an apprenticeship scheme will help school leavers build vital and highly sought-after skills that will boost their employability.

“At the same time as investing in young people, Zurich continues with upskilling all of its employees as we shift towards a more digital economy. To support businesses and individuals, we urge government to build more flexibility into the apprenticeship levy so that people can reskill into new roles.

"Current restrictions mean employees can only benefit from training in their current role, which is a barrier to growth opportunities. Given the current labour market, with record numbers of vacancies across the UK, added flexibility in the levy makes sense for everyone.”