Logistics Site Manager Review

As Site Manager for UK Logistics, I oversee a team of up to 35 individuals, both direct and indirect line reports. I manage budgets, resource, work load and collaborate cross functionally to drive continuous improvement. Within my team, I have three sub teams that oversee: 1. Processing (we aliquot, schedule lab work and weigh biochemicals), 2. Stock & Consumables (managing saleable units and consumables needed by Logistics and Labs) and 3. Outbound (fulfilling customer, distributor and internal shipments).

I thoroughly enjoy leading and being involved in projects, however prior to the apprenticeship I wasn't aware of such a variety of project management tools that can be used. Not only do I now fully understand the life cycle of a project, I'm now using the tools I've learnt, and trialling these tools and techniques, to see which work best for the project. Using the RACI matrix is one I never knew of, however since learning/researching it, I've been able to apply it within my work. Management models on achieving goals, building and developing a teams have assisted me in my transitions throughout the roles and projects I have done in the last 11 months. The McKinsey's 7S framework was new to me, when doing the Operational Management module/assignment, and has helped me grasp the "bigger picture" and work on my business strategy. This helped me when I was on my three month project role redesigning our global logistics structure.

The programme has allowed me to learn a vast many things, it has also given me the confidence and reinforced what I was already doing and what I already knew. There were tools and techniques I was already using, to a certain degree, however I either wasn't using fully utilising them or aware they even had a name! I enjoyed working with a cohort of women from a variety of employment sectors, and it was (weirdly) comforting when we all, to a degree, have similar experiences as women in our respective sectors.

The seminars for each module were organised, and ran, well, The presenter engaged the cohort, provided examples and personal experiences to what we were discussing. Albeit initially daunting, splitting into "breakout" rooms and working in teams on a mini presentation, discussion of topic etc was a nice addition as opposed to just sitting and listening.

Throughout my apprenticeship, I've communicated openly and honestly with my employer on my progress and needs. I am given the flexibility I need to complete my work, research further and have on the job training. I regularly make use of my work from home days to complete my work, which betters my time management.

I have a great rapport with my tutor. She's always friendly, helpful and can be available if I have any questions. I always look forward to our catch ups/reviews where we re-visit the skills, knowledge and behaviour ratings and even when I have to present! I am given encouragement, positive feedback and pointers on what criteria I need to hit to be the best I can be.

My learnings have allowed me to be able to make positive, and impactful, changes within my team. These don't only benefit my team, but also the business and our customers. Reducing wasteful tasks, streamlining how we operate and saving money have all been achieved with some of the changes I have made. I have shared my knowledge with other team members, such as helping them manage their time better, building their relationships and even coaching them on the importance of change.

At Abcam, we have an active social committee, ERGs and Abcoffee - regular meet ups for individuals to get to know others around the business. We also have a good charity committee (which I use to be part of) that run events to spread awareness of our chosen charity - currently it's the Red Hen Project. Our social committee have several events held throughout the year - a summer party, winter party and will often celebrate other culture's events, such as Diwali, Easter etc.

Yes

Abcam has a strong employee culture where everyone is appreciated, welcomed and encouraged to celebrate our differences. Although we are currently going through the motion of an acquisition - this time we're the ones being bought(!) - it'll create a whole new opportunity for those in the company to learn, grow and have some positive change.

Never be afraid to apply for a role, even if you don't hit 100% of the requirements. Abcam has a good recruitment process and once here, you'll have opportunities to move within the business! For the interview stage, always know the very basic of who Abcam are, and what we do. Asking questions at the end is definitely a good sign from the hiring manage (I've done plenty of interviews!), as it shows you're keen to learn more, and seem invested.