Joe O'Hara - Lloyds Banking Group

Joe O’Hara is one manager who has progressed via the degree apprenticeship route. He worked for Lloyds Bank for more than a decade when he enrolled on the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship | BA (Hons) in Applied Management.

“My parents didn’t go to university, and I wasn’t the most academic of students at school, but after 10 years and gaining practical experience has helped Joe climb the ranks at Lloyds.

“The bank offered to fund me through a degree apprenticeship, worth the best part of £30,000, there was nothing to dislike about the opportunity. I’ve always been conscious of not having a degree. I know what I’m capable of, but I was curious about whether I could back up what I know with a proper qualification.”

As a result, Joe was promoted into a more senior role within the first six months of studying.

“The degree apprenticeship has made me feel a more rounded, thoughtful and reflective individual. I might even consider doing an MBA next!”