Supply Chain Planner Review
at Unipart
Degree Apprenticeship
Logistics and Operations
Doncaster
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.3 /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
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 have been in my current role of Supply Chain Planner at Unipart Rail for almost four years, I assist in the management of a busy third-party logistics contract with one of the UK’s leading rolling stock maintenance companies. In this role, I play a key part in ensuring the seamless movement of materials throughout the supply chain. This involves regular collaboration with a diverse range of the customer’s employees, from the Fleet Head of Materials to stores staff. I also take responsibility for hosting site visits for both the customer and their vendors, and I serve as the depot’s primary point of contact for addressing critical issues requiring immediate attention.
In addition to my contractual responsibilities, I oversee the management of both the kitting operation and the warranty returns process within the third-party logistics contract. This includes capacity planning to meet forecasted demand, leading a five-person operational team to fulfil customer requirements. I have also taken on responsibility for managing stock liabilities within the contract, which involves creating detailed monthly contractual reports for customer approval. As we are currently in the process of the customer vertically integrating their supply chain this has become an important role in my day-to-day duties.
In addition to my contractual responsibilities, I oversee the management of both the kitting operation and the warranty returns process within the third-party logistics contract. This includes capacity planning to meet forecasted demand, leading a five-person operational team to fulfil customer requirements. I have also taken on responsibility for managing stock liabilities within the contract, which involves creating detailed monthly contractual reports for customer approval. As we are currently in the process of the customer vertically integrating their supply chain this has become an important role in my day-to-day duties.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
Overall, I’ve found the experience to be enjoyable, though not without its challenges. Since I primarily work within one area of the supply chain, being introduced to new and unfamiliar aspects has provided me with valuable insights. I’ve particularly enjoyed the workshops at the Supply Chain Academy, as they present theories and practices that I can potentially apply to my day-to-day role—more so than the workshops at Leeds Trinity University. Now, as I enter the final year of my apprenticeship, I’m balancing the completion of assignments alongside building my portfolio in preparation for the end-point assessment.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Throughout my apprenticeship, I have cultivated a strong growth mindset, further strengthened by the reflective practices I developed during this time. I acquired valuable data analysis skills, which I applied in a project that led to my participation in a Six Sigma workshop for additional accreditation. I also deepened my understanding of lean methodologies and successfully implemented them to improve the kitting process within the contract. Overall, I have become more proactive in identifying and delivering solutions to the various challenges that arise across the supply chain.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
There has been times where I feel like the University and Supply Chain Academy have given conflicting information, this has lead to confusion at times. Incorrect slides and handbooks are an example of such. The services that are provided by LTU are excellent as the Learning HUB and library are always a good resource.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I am allowed one contractual day per week to complete any assignment work by my employer. This has never been an issue and always been adhered to. Further to this the support from my line manager and other senior managers has been incredible. Always available for a chat around any subject matter that has been discussed whilst on a workshop and keen to allow me to showcase any enhanced knowledge or new skills acquired.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Both the Supply Chain academy and Leeds Trinity University are very supportive. Any instances that may require clarification generally are within a day or two. In terms of support services provided by LTU both the Learning HUB and the library are two of the most utilised areas of support I have used whilst being on the apprenticeship.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
It has allowed me a better understanding of the complete supply chain and the small but significant role I have in it. This has allowed me to enhance the relationships that I have developed both internally with colleagues and also externally with the customer and also vendors. Gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for all involved stakeholders roles.
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
We regularly hold social off-site activities with the aim of team building, for example paintballing and go-karting. There has also been numerous inter site charity fund raising events that has resulted in friendly on site competition being raised. Additionally a Christmas party is held annually that is also a good networking event.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Unipart to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, as personally I feel like the organisation has done a lot for me. Being given the opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship has made me feel valued in what I do day-to-day. The support offered to me across the board has been greatly appreciated. Also, I feel my direct senior managers have shown great faith in my abilities and allowed me to develop and flourish into the asset that I am becoming.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unipart?
I would advise people to join Unipart. The move onboard with them has undoubtedly been my best throughout my career, this has resulted in a huge shift both in mindset and aspirations. As the company is keen on internal success and promotions I am evident and testament to this transitional journey I have taken.
