trainee buyer Review
at Skanska
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Marketing
Watford, Hertfordshire
Review Submitted: February 2023
Overall Rating
4.6 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
I am a trainee buyer so my role entails many things. Raising requisitions, raising Purchase Orders and much more. I communicate with site managers and suppliers to ensure the right amount of the wanted need reaches its desired location within the wanted time frame. I am based as project support.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I'm enjoying the programme a lot. It's a nice mix of on the job training and off the job training. The content is enjoyable and not too challenging (but still a challenge). It is a flexible way of gaining qualifications, which is what I am a fan of.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I feel I've been able to develop my existing skills whilst picking up on new ones too. My Microsoft skills have vastly improved, using platforms like Outlook and ExCel. In addition, I've learnt how to raise Purchase Orders and how to navigate my way around Oracle, all new to me.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My programme is very well structured. CIPS are very familiar with Skanska. Many Skanska procurement employees have completed CIPS. Thus, the two bodies are close and are able to fit the needs of new starters, like myself, going through a new job whilst completing online studies at the same time.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer. As mentioned before, many Skanska Procurement professionals here have gone through CIPS, and thus understand the process. I get dedicated time per week to do my studies sand have even been granted study leave prior to my exams. I definitely recommend Skanska an apprenticeship
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a lot support from CIPS, my training provider. We have one to one meetings. Also organised revision sessions and seminars going through the knowledge. There are a range of CIPS members just a call or email away to help me with my studies. Knowledge issues, exam technique or admin problems, they are always able to help.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I believe it will help me a lot. It is hard to say now as I'm still learning the qualification. However, I can see how the knowledge I'm learning is applicable to my day to day job. The CIPS qualification will definitely give me a better perspective when I come to leading procurement projects.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
There are some activities available to me. I'm in a group chat that organises powerleague (football) sessions every now and then. There are also networking events that occur every few months. These aren't just limiting to one department. they vast out to various departments, making sure you get to meet a mix of people.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Skanska to a friend?
Yes
Why?
They are a great employer. They care for their staff, and you can see it. Through the benefits they provide, holiday and flexibility. They provide everyone with the means to work efficiently (chairs, monitors and more for remote working). The work itself is interesting, a lot of which has a massive impact on the UK.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Skanska?
Be honest, be yourself. Show willingness and interest in the company. The business is so vast, there is bound to be a department or sector that interests you. Skanska are keen on learning, and want all their employees to have and share as much knowledge as possible. Be prepared for that when you start.
