L6 Indirect Purchasing (Business) Apprentice Review

by BMW Group

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

My role sits within the Indirect Purchasing team, as a wider team we are Respsoible for the procurement of non-direct goods and services to all BMW Group UK and Ireland locations. Non direct goods are essentially non car parts. We cover small day to day purchases up to big strategic contracts.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt new and developed many new skills throughout my time as an apprentice. I came to BMW straight after finishing my a levels, and in this time I have gone through significant personal development in both my personal and job-specific skills. Some of which include: time management, confidence, communication and negotiation.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time throughout the apprenticeship programme at BMW so far. We are given a huge amount of opportunity. Some opportunities that have made it so enjoyable for me include 2 months working aboard in Germany, visiting the houses of parliament for a society of motor manufactures event and placements around the business.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is very well structured, we have placement plans so know in advance what department we will be working in and how long for. When we start each placement we fill out a training plan, which sets objectives and includes an appraisal element for feedback.

9/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

We have quarterly 1-1 meetings with our apprentice training manager, and every three weeks have a team meeting with all business apprentices. All training managers are easily contactable and happy to help.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

We have pre arranged 1-1 meetings each semester, all lectures are easily contactable by teams and are happy to support.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Due to being very junior in the role, currently I don't get many opportunities to apply my academic studies in my day to day work as it is a management and leadership course. Some elements I can but majority will be later on in my career.

7/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

So many! To name a few... Newsletter Team Charity Team SharePoint Team Careers Events Local community inaitives

10/10

9a. Would you recommend BMW Group to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Great opportunities, well structured, competitive pay and friendly and supportive teams!

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BMW Group?

Research the company Showcase transferrable skills Get involved with career events network with apprentice ambassadors