Sourcing Project Associate Review

Contract management with external suppliers, sourcing of commercial products, supporting project management activities.

I have gained confidence in leading continuous improvement projects and delivering the intended benefits to the team. I have also been given "stretch" development opportunities to build on my leadership skills.

I very much enjoy my apprenticeship programme and would encourage anyone to apply for the apprenticeship. I enjoy the various opportunities I have had to work within different teams and gaining exposure to senior members of the organisation by representing the apprentices.

At the beginning of my apprenticeship, the programme with the education provider wasn't as well structured as it could be. Different cohorts were receiving different information as the programme become more established. I have seen this has now improved with new cohorts on the same programme.

I have been fortunate to receive a huge amount of support from my manager in the SPA role, who has identified opportunities for me to address any areas I felt weaker on and encouraged me to get involved in projects that contribute to the business as well as my degree.

There could have been more regular support sessions in place with the training provider throughout the duration of the course. In my final year, I have found I have received good support whenever I have reached out and requested this.

I recognise that my qualification/apprenticeship and my role in the workplace are incredibly complimentary of each other. My assignments have encouraged me to network with people in the business I wouldn't typically reach out to and apply my supply chain knowledge to real life problems in the workplace.

I am entitled to one day per year where I can get involved in external volunteering opportunities that are organised through the workplace.

Yes

As an apprentice, you are very much valued for the new ideas and knowledge you can bring to the business and this is recognised in the opportunities you are given in the workplace to help develop your professional skills and career. You receive amazing support throughout your programme.

Ensure you are passionate about the roles you are applying for and the work AZ do as a business. Be yourself through all interview stages and show you are committed and inclusive of others.