Assistant Buyer Review

Day to day tasks always vary. However tasks can include: price changes, system updates, invoice queries, calling suppliers, arranging samples, arranging and being part of panels for raw materials, attending meetings, making trackers, filing, emailing both internally and externally. Every week I have a meeting with my line manager to go through how I feel and update on the work I have been doing and what I need to do

I have developed my communication skills - constantly emailing and talking to people on the phone and in person has improved the way I speak to people (ton, pace etc...) but it has also increased my confidence. Emailing skills have improved due to the high demand of emails I have to send. The use of excel has improved massively as I use it on a daily basis. Training sessions and courses have helped with this development

The programme is good. It is giving me the experience and knowledge that I need on the job. Working around professionals also helps as you gain the knowledge from someone who has been in the industry and within the career for years. The degree side of it is also exciting as you're getting the same level of tutoring as you would at university

It is well structured as you get both experience on the job and then lectures, revision and 1-2-1 tutoring. Day to day jobs tend to be less structured as many things change and come up during the day which you my need to prioritise. The degree side of the programme is structured by a timetable with dates and times

Bakkavor is supportive in the way that it helps financially and development wise. Many courses and training days are organised to widen knowledge, conferences help to meet people and communicate with them (improving contacts), days off are given so that more time can be dedicated to the degree and revision.

I cannot quote how much they support as my degree has only just started but 1-2-1 and mentoring are part of the timetable before every exam. As far as I have heard from previous apprentices, the people there are very patient and supportive when it comes to lectures and revision

Through CIPS you gain more written knowledge of the industry. There are many things you have to read and case studies you have to know of which helps in day to day jobs as you are aware of what has happened in the past and will help consider it in the future

We have a SEF ref at work who holds SEF meetings where you can discuss issues and suggestions. There are many charity things we do e.g. raffles, runs, car washes, cake sales etc... We also have a food bank where people bring in donations. Bakkavor also does a fun weekend locally.

Yes

Bakkavor supports in every way possible. Employees get rewards and benefits which can include things like insurances, healthcare and events things like e-vouchers. People are always welcoming. They care a lot about their apprentices which makes I easy to work here. The staff shop is also a massive perk as you can get food cheap!

Be yourself! Bakkavor loves diversity and promotes it across all sites. Make sure you are aware briefly of what bakkavor do as it will help during any interviews or assessment days. Experience Is never necessary as bakkvor will provide training and courses for you so you are fully trained to do something