In our final apprenticeship blog, we hear from Jessica Doody about how her apprenticeship is supporting both her career and personal development. She begins by introducing her course.

“I’m currently completing the Chartered Manager (Degree) Apprenticeship Standard (Level 6) at Aston University, which I started in September 2025, alongside my role as Sales Manager at Elite Precast Concrete Ltd.

“Although I’m still early in the apprenticeship, it has already played an important part in my development by allowing me to combine academic learning with real, hands-on management experience in my day-to-day role.

“Studying at Aston University has helped me understand the theory behind effective leadership, communication and decision-making, but more importantly it has encouraged me to reflect on myself. I’ve become more aware of my strengths, areas for development, and the impact my actions and communication can have on others. Learning about leadership styles, teamwork and organisational behaviour has given me the confidence to adapt my approach to different situations and different people.

“My role as Sales Manager at Elite Precast is where this learning really comes to life. Working in a fast-paced manufacturing and construction environment has helped me build strong commercial awareness, problem-solving skills and the ability to manage priorities effectively. I work closely with customers, production and logistics, which has strengthened my communication and helped me understand the wider business beyond sales. Being trusted with responsibility has played a huge part in building my confidence as a manager.

“Elite Precast has been incredibly supportive of my apprenticeship and my development, and I feel valued and encouraged to grow, particularly by Owen Batham and Louise Chouhan-Hodges. The positive culture, strong teamwork and hands-on approach make it a place where I feel motivated and proud to work. Combining my studies at Aston University with my role at Elite Precast has been challenging at times, but extremely rewarding, and it has reinforced my ambition to keep progressing as a confident, capable and people-focused leader within the business.”