Logistics Solutions Manager Review

I am currently the Logistics Solutions Manager for the New Business Development team. I manage new lanes and product launches out of Europe, interacting with global teams to ensure we have a successful first shipment. A lot of it can be problem solving within the supply chain and ensuring all data, logistics and planning is done effectively to avoid delays in shipments.

I have managed to earn a NVQ and now studying towards a degree. I have also participated in multiple internal training courses do develop my skillset such as Coaching in the workplace or Presentation and Voice Coaching. All these have taught me about bringing the best out of myself and pushed me towards what leadership will look like going forward.

I enjoy my Apprenticeship programme a lot. GSK is a great company to be working for and the work is challenging however we learn so much. The teams we interact with on a day to day basis are very friendly and supportive of the apprenticeship scheme and this business as a whole has surpassed my expectations of how great it is.

I feel like I've become a key asset for GSK over the few years I have been here. I am appreciated by management for the work I delivery and get the recognition where deserved. I am also offered multiple development opportunities and roles in the business and this makes me feel valued that the business thinks highly of me to offer me such positions.

The programme is organised well and has a good structure and timeline around it. It is sometimes difficult to manage work and studying in the time we have so it requires out of office hours for sure. We get great support from everyone in the business and help wherever needed. GSK are continuously working on developing the apprenticeship scheme and I feel that it has come a long way over the years.

The training provider engages with us on a regular basis and we also have them coming in to the office once a month. This allows us to have a day away from the day to day office work and focus our minds solely on the training piece. We can ask for support at any time via email or phone call and the tutors are always there to ensure we a aligned for success.

I am honoured to say I work for GSK as its a great organisation and they have done a lot for my development. I have received a great deal of support from my managers and HR to ensure that I have always had the best opportunity and they have always looked in to investing in me now to reap the rewards and benefits long term.

I find it difficult at times with the apprenticeship salary that I have been on as living and travel costs in London can be very expensive however I have managed and also had top up salaries for when on secondments so it has helped a lot. However being an older apprentice at the age of 25 in comparison to an apprentice who's 17/18, the salary is more of a challenge for me.

I find there are a lot of opportunities outside of work that take place. Social events with colleagues, to even attending seminars for training. There are plenty of opportunities thrown your way when you are in such a large organisation and you have built up your network.

Yes

GSK is a great company to work at for many reasons however one of the most important factors for me is knowing that when I come in to work every day, the work I do has an impact. There is a patient at the end of our supply chains and for me ensuring that I get a launch of a product on time is critical and this can be satisfying and rewarding enough itself to know you play such a huge part in the well being of society and the future generations of the world.

The application process can be long and stringent however it is worth it. Once you have a step in to such a large organisations, the doors and opportunities will automatically open up for you. Interviews and assessment days, the best advice I can give is be yourself and be comfortable. The business will look at you as a person as well as your qualifications. One thing I would have liked to be told before hand is to prepare for a complete different world and switch from what we have been use to in full time educations. The change from full time education to the corporate world is huge and this is something you should be prepared for.