Procurement Apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Procurement
London
Review Submitted: April 2025
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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.2/5
-
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
My day-to-day responsibilities include researching potential suppliers, analysing spend, and evaluating proposals. I work with suppliers to negotiate contracts, ensuring we secure value-for-money deals. Drafting purchase orders and assisting with contract management are part of my daily tasks.
I work alongside experienced procurement professionals who mentor me in strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management. I also attend meetings with internal stakeholders to understand their service needs and translate these into procurement specifications.
I work alongside experienced procurement professionals who mentor me in strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management. I also attend meetings with internal stakeholders to understand their service needs and translate these into procurement specifications.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I really enjoy my programme - it combines hands-on experience with learning. I get to work with different suppliers and teams, which keeps things interesting and helps me grow. The CIPS program also boosts my skills
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have both learned new skills and developed existing ones. I've gained a solid understanding of the procurement and supply environment, including the fundamentals of procurement processes and the factors affecting supply chains. My negotiation skills have significantly improved, equipping me with techniques essential for creating advantageous supplier agreements. The course has also deepened my knowledge of contract management, teaching me how to create and manage contracts while ensuring compliance and maximising value. Additionally, I've learned about the importance of ethics and sustainability in procurement, enhancing my ability to conduct business responsibly. Through analysing costs and pricing, I've developed my analytical skills, making me more adept at ensuring procurement efficiencies and savings.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is well structured - i gain hands-on experience through varied day-to-day tasks, while the CIPS curriculum provides a solid foundation in procurement principles. Regular feedback helps continuous development, making the learning process better.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer, with access to friendly faces who guide my learning. Regular feedback helps track my progress, while additional resources and training ensure I understand procurement thoroughly. This supportive environment is really helpful for my growth
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
They offer helpful resources, responsive tutors, and regular check-ins to ensure I'm on track. Their guidance complements my practical experience, making it easier to apply what I learn to real-world procurement situations.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My qualification does enhances my performance in my role. The theoretical knowledge from the course applies well to my day-to-day tasks, improving my decision-making and problem-solving skills. It bridges the gap between learning and practice, ensuring I feel confident
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
Lots of social activities and networking events to be part of.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend AstraZeneca as a great place to work because of its supportive culture. The mentorship provided is exceptional, offering guidance and insights from the team. Additionally, the focus on skill development makes it a great environment for progress.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Showcase relevant experiences and skills, emphasizing any teamwork or problem-solving examples. Research the company’s values and recent projects to demonstrate your alignment with their goals.
