Supply Chain Apprentice Review

My role at GSK varies between my rotations. My first rotation was in planning where I was responsible for planning launches and transfers on the site I am on. This involved use of the SAP system to complete tasks, notifications and using the system to plan for the launches. It would be my responsibility to link in with the market and discuss launch requirements and data set up, and then feed this back to other planners. My current role is a Product Lifecycle Project Manager, where I am responsible for a Global Clinical Trial set up project, registration campaigns and launches.

Yes I have learnt a lot about stakeholder management in particular, as well as project management skills. I have learnt about the importance of developing relationships with people too. Most importantly I have learnt to worry about the things you can control, and not about the things you can't control, especially in projects!

I really enjoy my apprentice program. There is really good balance between university work and a 'real job'. GSK is very big on developing people and outside of my day to day role I have been on a number of training programs, workshops and development weeks which has helped my development.

The people I work with are really helpful and kind which has allowed me to get the most out of each rotation. I have regular positive feedback from my working peers and I feel like my role is truly valued. I am doing a 'real' job as opposed to odd jobs for people around the office.

The program is well structured, and there is a huge deal of investment put into us as people, outside of the apprenticeship itself. Sometimes the needs of the business come first over the apprenticeship, but that is too be expected in a very busy pharma site for GSK. There is an expectation that you may need to complete uni work at home if there is no time in the working week.

Our training providers re very good, and are always available on email or phone. They play varied roles depending on which qualifications it is that we are working to but one of the major benefits of my apprenticeships is that I get to go to head office in London 2 days every other month to meet my tutor and my peers on the course which is helpful to bounce ideas.

I have two mentors, with each having different background and skills and work areas which is really helpful for me. I meet with my manager regularly and everyone tries their best to help. There are different levels of people that can be bought together to assist with problems and all of them are quite approachable.

I think the salary is ok, and I am fortunate to still be living at home. I know some of peers who live away really struggle and based on the equivalent roles we are doing in our rotations there is quite a big pay gap. However the amount of investment we get I think it is ok and we are in the apprenticeship scheme for the long term benefits.

Yes there are frequent social events for Apprentices, IPs and grads to all mingle together, as well as on their own and these are often site of region based. The training courses allow for a good social experience too. We also do other events and networking events that help us to build contacts around the site and beyond.

Yes

Really great company to work for, diversity, inclusion and development are key agendas and hence makes it a fab place to work. Pharmaceuticals can be slow and frustrating because of its nature, but apart form that would 100% recommend. GSK operates all over the world and so makes opportunities really exciting and within reach, whether that be between sites or countries. GSK is a great name to have on your CV.

Be yourself, ask lots of questions, be confident and don't be afraid to sell yourself.