Formula Student
Direct Line Group Direct Line Group is home to some of the nation's best-known brands and employs over 10,000 people. The Group has a clear mission: they want to make insurance much easier and better value for customers
This month Direct Line Group has opened up applications to its Technical Engineering Graduate Programme 2019. The scheme is a 3-year graduate programme where 15 lucky candidates will get a chance to work in various roles such as a Vehicle Damage Assessor and working in the Technical Team to look at ways to help transform the body shops of the future. It’s the perfect opportunity for candidates to learn more about the technology changing the automotive repair industry.
Felicity Harer is Motor Network Technology Specialist in the DLGAuto Services team and we spoke to her about Direct Line Group and how she came to work in the automotive industry.
Tell us about what you do at Direct Line Group!
I work for DLG AutoServices and joined in February 2018. I spend my time looking at trends and innovations across the automotive industry with a view to ways we can improve the way body shops operate. It’s a really exciting time as technology is moving so fast, we are seeing lots of new and exciting developments emerging.
What made you get into the industry?
I’ve always been interested in engineering and completed an Engineering degree at the University of Leicester. I then did some work experience at a number of engineering companies which led to an undergraduate placement at Jaguar Land Rover. There I got some experience dealing with suppliers, sourcing parts, modifying designs, and correcting problems with prototype vehicles, but I still wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do.
I spent the summer trying to work out my career path and finally decided that I wanted work with advanced technology which would allow me to be creative and that would also offer lots of variation.
It’s been really exciting watching the automotive industry evolve. The move towards different fuels has been huge, and there have been some really significant changes in the materials used to make vehicles. There’s also the increase in driving assistance as we move towards driverless cars. It’s all moving really fast so really looking forward to seeing how this progresses in the future.
Why did you decide to join DLG?
Direct Line Group is such a great place to work as it is dynamic, forward thinking and offers loads of opportunities for people wanting to join the industry. When I saw the role I thought it would give me an opportunity to make a real difference to the sector.
Direct Line Group have also just last week been awarded third place in the Sunday Times Best Companies to work for which is testament to the good work they do not only for their customers, but for their people too!
So tell us about the Grad scheme
It’s really exiting! Direct Line Group is looking for ambitious, creative people who are keen to soak up new experiences and make a positive impact on our customer’s lives. We're looking for more than just a degree. We need people who are deeply motivated and excited by working in an ever-changing environment.
The programme runs for 3 years and graduates will be working across the UK in various roles at DLG Auto Services. They will be supported from day one and they’ll have the opportunity to take ownership of dynamic projects, enjoy on the job training, workshops and help develop skills and gain qualifications. This opportunity really is your launch-pad to the very top of our business.
To find out more about Direct Line’s Graduate Scheme and how to apply click here: https://www.directlinegroupcareers.com/job-details/R-6209/