Supplier Quality Engineer Review

My day to day role involves maturation of complex mechanism parts (for example rear seat footrest mechanism and rear passenger privacy blinds) which are used on Bentley vehicles. I manage the suppliers of such parts to ensure that they produce high quality parts which function as intended, and that they are produced on time to meet critical project timings.

I've developed my confidence and my communication skills. I have gained valuable experience in managing meetings, presenting to my colleagues, and making decisions based upon my own judgement after gaining on the job experience. I have also learnt new hands on practical skills and broadened my knowledge of product design and manufacturing processes. I have also completed multiple training courses during my time at Bentley.

I really enjoy my programme and my job at Bentley Motors. Each day is filled with new challenges and new learning opportunities. I look forward to each day, this is in part thanks to the excellent colleagues who I work with. We make a great team, and always offer support to each other when it is needed.

The programme is very well organised and it is also well structured. Aston University allow a flexible approach to learning, as do Bentley. The coordination between the Aston HR team, my project supervisors and the academic staff is brilliant. Bentley are very supportive and allow me to structure my off the job hours as I see fit.

Bentley are very supportive, and the HR team are keen to assist with personal development in any way which they can. From a departmental perspective, my team and line manager will always offer support if required, and they are also very accommodating of my off the job hours and understand that my study/work balance needs to be achieved.

I receive plenty of support from Aston University. Each of the module owners deliver lectures in an effective manner, and they are also contactable outside of lectures to answer any outstanding questions or provide clarity on particular topics. Additionally, my academic and professional supervisors (allocated by Aston University) provide support with my projects, helping me to identify a clear project scope, and providing guidance throughout.

My qualification has broadened my knowledge and understanding of the world of engineering, with a particular focus on sustainability. The content which is covered on my course has enhanced my professionalism and has given me more confidence to perform my day to day role effectively. As a result of my module projects, I have taken on an additional role in my department as a Sustainability Champion.

There are numerous extra-curricular activities to get involved in at Bentley. There are regular social events for apprentices and graduates/undergraduates which encourage networking and building friendships outside of working hours. In terms of sporting events, there is a monthly departmental 5 a-side football match which takes place in Supplier Quality, which I have taken the responsibility of organising. And in terms of professional networking events, there are monthly 'breakfast clubs' with senior management/board members where individuals can get to know senior management and discuss any ideas or concerns.

Yes

Bentley Motors is a fantastic place to work. All colleagues are treated equally, and all colleagues are given opportunities for personal development and career progression. I feel a huge sense of pride in working for Bentley; the people are great, the product is brilliant, and the Bentley brand is iconic across the world. Additionally, Bentley also offers excellent employee benefits including a competitive salary and pension scheme.

Don't shy away from expressing your passion for the brand and the automotive industry as a whole; Bentley want skilled/professional employees who will take pride in what they do. Furthermore, make sure that you sell yourself during the written application/interview. Don't forget to mention previous achievements, whether they be work related, academic, or key achievements in your personal life. There is always a useful skills link to be drawn from past experiences. For example, being a captain of a sports team would highlight strong leadership, teamwork and communication skills.