Supply Chain Leadership Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Business Operations
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.1 /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
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.8/5
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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 in my second year as a Supply Chain Leadership Apprentice. I am currently in my second rotation as a international distribution coordinator where i am responsible for allocating stock, arranging freight, ensure goods are dispatched from out site and sending commercial documents to our customers/markets.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
One thing i enjoy the most about my apprenticeship is the the support network. When entering a new rotation where you have little to no experience in, can be nerve wracking. But with the continuous support of your colleagues, it can be a boost of confidence. I am always comfortable asking lots of questions and having the opportunity to reach out to different areas of the business and learning new perspectives on how a business operation is navigated. Surrounding myself with a friendly and supportive work force always makes it a pleasure and a key motivator to come into the office!
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have learnt many skills in this apprenticeship ranging from analysing data to elevating my communication skills with customers. Coming straight out of college, it was hard to adjust to the level of professionalism. But with the support of my mentors and buddies exposing me to so many opportunities, i was able to learn and elevate mu current skills in negotiation and data analytics.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My rotation has been structured in a way where i can explore different areas of the business ranging from Material planning to Warehouse controller. This structure allows me to understand full depth in the different processes throughout the supply chain benefiting me in the future with experience in different functions of the operation. As well as this, i also have the flexibility to explore different areas of the business where i seek interest to gain a perspective of operations that im not familiar with. This is well balanced with my 1 study day a week where i am able to get my uni work done as well provided the opportunity for a bit more leniency to do my uni work within the week if required.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive so much support from my employer. My Line Manager has always been able to support me whether it was University related or work related. They have always shown interest in my development and have provided me opportunities to upskill my current qualities and continue to encourage to me to make the most of my time in my apprenticeship
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
I have received lots of support from my training provider. I have Tripartite revies with my university and line manager to discuss my progress within work and with my assignments. I am always open to discuss where i need support with my uni work and the training providers are always able to point me in the direction of where to look for research or how i should structure an assignment.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I am able to apply my learnings from my qualifications into my day-to-day role and understanding why a business operation is performed in a certain way
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
The apprentice north west society always shares any networking events to allow apprentices to come together and socialise. This creates a more casual environment allowing apprentices to relax outside of work!
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Doing an Apprenticeship with AstraZeneca is one of the best things i have ever done. Having the best of both world where i am to get my degree whilst working in such a supportive network where i able to expand my horizons in different business functions. I have learned so many new skills from all the opportunities i have been given and i am always keen to experiences different functions and continuing to development my professionalism within the organisation. The apprentice society is an amazing community for apprentices to come together and enjoy the socials and gain the opportunity to take part in volunteering events!
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Always show your your interest and enthusiasm towards when being interviewed for an apprenticeship. It's important to have a good level of confidence whilst maintaining professionalism and always making sure you selling your skills showing the potential employer what you have to offer!
