Supply Chain Industrial Placement Review

Within my 12 month placement i have had 2 placements which have had quite different day to day jobs. In my first placement i engaged regularly with external suppliers and managed relationships with stakeholders. My days also involved a lot of admin and cross functional meetings. My current team takes on a negotiating role within supply chain. The day to day job involves reviewing cost models and basis of estimates in order to create an appropriate list of challenges and clarifications to the supplier to ascertain value for money for the customer. My responsibilities entail managing my own contracts and tracking their movements which requires consistent stakeholder engagement.

Towards the second half of my placement i felt like core staff and as if i was treated like a resource, being given tasks which enabled me to make contributions to the teams success. I also received tasks which were high pressure and required me to work under tight deadlines which allowed me to feel like an important part of the team.

My confidence has increased massively due to the responsibility and trust i have been given to complete tasks without constant monitoring. I have also increased my ability to use software such as excel, whilst i was already intermediate in my use of excel i now believe i am advanced. My problem solving and analytic skills have been refined via practice in reviewing cost models and attending 'problem solving sessions' where we work together as a team to resolve issues. my team working ability has increased due to the collaborative nature of the job and support received from colleagues which inspires me to do the same.

My managers along with early careers have been very attentive over the past 12 months, offering me support without me having to ask etc. I know if i have an issue there is always someone i can go to, there are multiple procedures in place which enabled me to get help whenever required.

Each team fostered a kind and caring culture in which everyone was always approachable and willing to help, this evidences the collaborative nature within the company

I enjoyed my placement more than i could have ever anticipated, i am yet to dread a day at work as i enjoy everyday. I hope i will one day be able to return so that i can work towards a career within the company.

Yes