Procurement Apprentice Review

Procurement involves the acquisition of products through effective risk, contract and supplier management. My role includes ensuring risks are minimised and tackling any issues pre-launch.

Yes, my confidence has grown massively as I am now much more comfortable speaking to new people, asking questions etc. I have also developed my IT skills, and my Procurement knowledge.

I very much enjoy my apprenticeship. I learn new things every day and each day is a different challenge. I am moved around different sites each 18 months as well so I am able to learn new business skills. I very much enjoy the fast paced work style.

I feel valued by Bakkavor. My team are supportive and encouraging. There is some recognition of my efforts. I feel that some departments within Bakkavor do not value me as much as others, but this may be due to not having as much co-operation with them.

My programme is very well structures. I have 18 months at each placement, and follow a training course where I need to complete 5 exams per year, which gives me a degree level qualification.

I receive lots of support from T2P who provide the training. I have three learning sessions with them per exam, including a revision day. I am always able to contact them if I have any queries.

I feel I am valued within my team at Bakkavor and my manager is encouraging. If I have a query they will support. Sometimes I feel a slight lack of support from my CIPS Internal mentor, however I understand they are very busy.

I believe my salary is good in comparison to other apprentice wages. However, I often find myself doing the same or more work than my equivalent Assistant Buyer who gets paid much more. I sometimes struggle with money as I pay rent and have other everyday costs which is hard to sustain on my wage at times.

I am unsure what is meant by opportunities. I feel that as I live an hour from work any opportunity there would be may not apply to me as it would be difficult to participate in activity in the area.

Yes

Overall, it is a very supportive and encouraging business. I have been lucky to achieve such a good placement which pays for my education as well as allowing me work. People are friendly and welcoming.

I would suggest researching into the business, as a bit of back ground knowledge is always useful. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions. People will be aware that you are young and new to the world of work.