National Apprenticeship Week 2026 – Mark Wiles

Tell us who you are and your current HCC role?

I have over 20 years’ experience working for Hull City Council having arrived as a level 2 apprentice at the age of 17. I have 9 years’ experience in the housing service and 6 years in housing management. My current role as a Housing Tenancy Manager in the Tenancy Sustainment function, I am very passionate about Tenancy Sustainment and the role I play in social housing and committed to driving success for both the organisation and its tenant group. I am proud to deliver excellent customer service and I amcommitted to providing residents with a high-quality service which allows them to live in safe and welcoming neighborhoods.

What course have you started?

Operations Manager Level 5

What made you decide to do this while in full time employment?

I have previously undertaken a Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Apprenticeship which gave me skills and knowledge to develop into my previous role as a Senior Tenancy Officer and into my current role as a Housing Tenancy Manger. Undertaking apprenticeships in the past has helped me to be the person I am today, Not only has it provide me skills and knowledge but also that confidence to progress and continue to develop.

What are the benefits of doing this while already employed by HCC?

Undertaking this apprenticeship while working for HCC will allow me to further develop my management skills and knowledge, enabling me to work more effectively within my role. This will also allow me to increase my personal performance and develop skills to enable me to progress into higher management roles. You are not only learning through your apprenticeship but also from your peers, colleagues and mentors on a daily basis. HCC are committed to providing you with the opportunity to succeed in your apprenticeship by allowing you time off the job as required.

What do you hope the apprenticeship will help you to achieve?

I see this apprenticeship as part of my ongoing personal development and will hopefully develop on my existing skills set and provide me with new knowledge and skills needed to take that next step in my career. The skills and knowledge learnt are both a benefit to me personally and to the organisation as I bring these into my daily work.

What advice would you give any colleagues thinking about doing the same?

Apprenticeships are a great opportunity to learn new skills and increase your knowledge in your chosen area. It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and find out our others work. Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to learn on the job and provides a great mix of learning whilst also providing you the flexibility to manage both your course and deliver on the expectations of your role.