This June heralded another first for Praetura Asset Finance as we welcomed the company’s first ever apprentices to our team.
Harry Thompson and Luke Foster have joined our New Business Team in the roles of Trainee New Business Coordinators. While working as part of that team, learning about the interesting world of asset finance and helping the brokers we work with and their SME clients, they will also be working towards gaining a Business Admin Level 3 qualification.
New Business Manager Anne McKee commented: “I am delighted not just to have Harry and Luke joining our team, but for Praetura Asset Finance to be engaging with the apprenticeship scheme. This was the route I took myself when embarking on my career in finance and I found the experience invaluable.
“The continuing growth and development of the business and the success of our Graduate Business Development programme (recently expanded with the appointment of our first Graduate Trainee Underwriter earlier this year), fuelled interest in exploring the apprenticeship avenue.
“I believe Harry and Luke will add a new dynamic and fresh perspective to the team. Hopefully this is the start of a bright future for both of them as part of the Praetura Group”.
Speaking to Harry and Luke about why they chose the apprenticeship route, Luke told us: “I liked the idea of learning on the job and gaining real life experience while developing skills that will help me in later life. There is also the advantage of earning while I’m learning rather than building up student debts.
“Already at Praetura I’ve noticed that everyone working as a team and being both approachable and knowledgeable makes learning easier. It’s a happy and healthy environment that I’m really enjoying being part of”.
Harry added: “I feel an apprenticeship was the right option for me after finishing my A-Levels as an alternative to university. Earning while gaining valuable skills was a key factor and I feel it will be a more beneficial experience.
“I chose Praetura for my apprenticeship as I was really interested in being able to work in an ever-changing environment and being able to see how the business world has adapted to the current climate. I’ve settled in quickly and I’m excited for what the future holds at Praetura”.