National apprenticeship week 2024: Max Dutton interview

To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2024, ACG sat down with one of its Senior Payouts Handler Max Dutton to share his apprentice journey. Max has been with ACG for over two years and is an advocate for apprenticeships, he is also successfully rising up the ranks at the company. The interview was then published on ACG’s LinkedIn Page.

Here’s his story:

Tell us about your career to date at ACG?
I started my apprentice journey back in November 2021. At the beginning, I had no industry or work experience, but eager to make a career for myself and ACG looked to be a great fit for my aspirations. Throughout my apprenticeship, the company and my team were super supportive in helping me balance my day job, course work and end point assessments.

What do you like about working at ACG?
The best thing about working at ACG is the people and its culture. There’s a lot of trust placed upon you by the leadership team and directors, you can see they really want you to thrive. Plus, there is scope for progression, and they recognise that hard work opens up the doors to further opportunities.

What’s been your biggest challenge so far?
Managing the balance of studying and working was a big challenge, especially at the beginning. However, ACG were brilliant in helping me find the time to establish a happy medium, making sure both were equally prioritised.

Why did you choose the apprentice route for your career?
I wanted to choose a path that would let me hit the ground running whilst at the same time furthering my education. Building up that experience was always number one for me, and ACG offered me the opportunity for it. It’s exciting to be part of a growing company and learn more about the industry we work in.

What are your career aspirations?
My career is progressing well at ACG, and I’m excited to see how I can grow and develop within the business. I know there’s areas I need to work on like people management and my confidence, but ACG is the best environment for that, and I know through their support and direction I’ll get there.

What would be your biggest tip for any apprentice looking to follow this path?
Anyone who has ever asked me about doing an apprenticeship, I’ve always told them to go ahead and do it. The opportunity to learn on the job is invaluable and it’s a great way to get to know people and industries. Even if you feel overwhelmed and a little lost at the beginning, just get stuck in and before you know it, you’ll be flying.

Final comment from ACG:
Thank you for sharing your story, Max. ACG’s Apprenticeship programme is constantly evolving. Keep following our LinkedIn Company Page for updates on the latest apprentice roles and vacancies.