Supply Chain Leadership Degree Level Apprenticeship Review

My role is based in the day to day management of our busy logistics operations. This involves managing teams and individuals to complete tasks, manage deadlines and maintain performance. I am also involved in the coordination of the sites compliance and recruitment and also work on a wide variety of projects.

The main skills that I have developed are surrounding people and stakeholder management. I work with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders on a day to day basis and from this I have also developed my customer relationship management and also time management skills. I have also learnt about managing HR processes as well as labour planning.

I really enjoy the program that I am currently on - it is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands on management experience at an early stage in my career. I also enjoy the variety across the business as we work with many different customers across the country which allows for exposure to lots of different operations and functions.

The program is very well structured with two placements, which are two years in length. This allows you to develop a strong understanding of the operation you are working in and apply these skills across the duration of the placement. The second placement again allows exposure to a different element of the business to build a strong understand at the end of the program as to where you may or may not be interested in a permanent. The study element is also integrated into the scheme well with set days on campus and lots of support with study days.

The support I recieve from my employer is second to none - there is always someone on hand to deal with queries or concerns and to celebrate successes along your journey. This support is also available through your line management in addition to the apprenticeship team. Colleagues at a variety of levels within the business who aren't directly associated to the apprenticeship schemes also take a great interest in offering support on your journey. This support is also multifaceted and is not limited to the apprenticeship; support is also available for mental, physical and financial health as well as general wellbeing and other opportunities that may arise internally or externally.

The university is incredibly supportive in your studies and assessments and encourage you to achieve the best grades possible. Support is available on your lectures, in person on campus or through simply emailing your tutor and peers. There is also support with additional resources such as the learning development centre and library functions to aid with your studies and qualifications.

My day job relates to my qualification a very large proportion of the time and allows for continued learning on the job. This has allowed me to gain confidence in my ability to communicate both written and verbally and has also enabled me to look at situations from a different perspective, with the theory in mind.

I have been involved with a number of different events and networking activities through work. These include challenge events/days, an apprenticeship social group and other charity events. I am also supported to take part of voluntary activities through the DHL foundation and other extra activities outside of the work place.

Yes

I would definitely recommend DHL to a friend as the opportunities are limitless, whether in this country or internationally, in this part of the business or in a different division: there are lots of avenues to explore. The company is also very support of and keep to develop young talent, so is the perfect environment to learn and thrive from a young age.

My advice to others who are applying to DHL would be to be yourself throughout the application process and consider what you can bring as an individual to the business. Take time to explore what the business has to offer and how this relates to your own interests, passions and skills. At the end of the day the company is looking to invest in people who are just as interested in investing in them so being your true self is key.