Supply chain apprentice Review

Monitoring stock levels of parts used in manufacturing, communicating with a setlist of suppliers ensuring orders are in place through the use of SAP. Running daily reports and attending daily walkaround meetings, reporting any supply related issues back to the wider planning team and escalating issues when necessary.

I have developed my problem solving skills and ability to think on the spot to come up with solutions to issues that can occur in procurement. I have also developed my communication skills and become a lot more confident as a person overall.

Overall I enjoy my apprenticeship and the responsibility that comes with it, it's been a difficult time for the team which has caused us more workload then originally planned but I've never felt overwhelmed by it as the team are very supportive and are always willing to help. College is good as the lessons are online which cuts out travelling, the exams are very frequent but I've found a lot of the learning overlaps across the multiple modules we do, making it easier to remember things.

I have regular meetings with my line manager and there seems to be a plan in place that will see us move across all the different areas, we've spent a lot of time in material planning but there does seem to be a focus on making sure we're getting a taste of all the other areas, given the circumstances the team's been in it does feel like there is a decent structure to the programme, all apprentices are well looked after and encouraged to speak up if there are any problems.

There are frequent apprentice meetings which encourages everyone to speak up and raise any concerns, If there was a problem I know the company would help out, there are very supportive people at Siemens which makes the experience a lot better.

I have regular online meetings with my training provider who is very helpful and makes sure I'm on track, the lessons are taught by multiple teachers that work for CIPS

It gives me a better understanding on the roles and responsibilities procurement has in business and how supply chain works with other departments such as quality, warehouse etc.

There are fundraising events put on by the business every year, recently we had a networking event where members of CIPS came to visit the site and learn more about the business.

Yes

It's a good opportunity to work in a business environment that encourages people to question things and come up with new ideas, you learn a lot of skills which will help you going forward in your career and have responsibilities.

Don't feel like you have to know everything straight away, there's a lot of terms and processes that can take time to get your head around, it very quickly starts making sense as you progress and doesn't take long to get used too.