Operations Global Graduate Associate Review
at AstraZeneca
Graduate Scheme
Business Operations, Logistics and Operations
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: August 2025
Overall Rating
5 /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!
5/5
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Overview of the Role
5/5
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Experience & Company Culture
5/5
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Recommendations & Advice
Overview of the Role
Overall, how would you describe your experience at AstraZeneca?
My experience at AstraZeneca has been extremely positive and rewarding. Being part of the Operations Graduate Programme has given me the unique opportunity to develop a broad understanding of how an international pharmaceutical company delivers life-changing medicines to patients worldwide. The open and inclusive culture, the emphasis on learning and mentorship, and the chance to work on projects with genuine impact have made my time here both professionally and personally fulfilling. I have felt continuously challenged, supported, and valued throughout each rotation.
What are the main responsibilities of the role and which elements of the role do you enjoy the most?
As part of the graduate programme, my main responsibilities have varied with each rotation, but generally include project management, process optimisation, data analysis, problem-solving, and supporting operational activities within a specific function. For example, during my time in supply chain, I worked on forecasting and logistics efficiency projects; in my technical rotation as a digiatl project manager, I helped streamline production workflows and supported quality initiatives.
The elements I have enjoyed most include the opportunity to tackle real-world problems, collaborate across multicultural teams, and see the tangible impact of my work on the company and its patients. The programme’s structure, with hands-on projects and cross-functional exposure, has kept me continuously learning and engaged.
The elements I have enjoyed most include the opportunity to tackle real-world problems, collaborate across multicultural teams, and see the tangible impact of my work on the company and its patients. The programme’s structure, with hands-on projects and cross-functional exposure, has kept me continuously learning and engaged.
To what extent does your role give you the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by your team?
5/5
I have consistently had opportunities to contribute meaningfully, whether by taking ownership of projects, presenting findings to senior leadership, or implementing changes that affect daily operations. The culture at AstraZeneca encourages open discussion and values contributions from all team members, regardless of experience level. Mentors and colleagues seek out input from graduates, and successes are recognized both informally and in performance reviews. This has helped me feel both empowered and appreciated in every placement.
How does your compensation package - including perks & benefits - fairly remunerate you for the work you do?
5/5
The compensation package is competitive for a graduate programme within the industry, and the benefits are strong. I receive a competitive base salary which increases upon successful completion of the programme. Additionally, perks such as healthcare cover, pension contributions, generous paid leave, relocation support for new placements, and access to wellbeing and development resources add significant value.
Some of the most valuable benefits for me have been the tailored learning and development budget, flexible working arrangements, comprehensive healthcare, and the opportunity for international assignment with all the necessary relocation support.
Some of the most valuable benefits for me have been the tailored learning and development budget, flexible working arrangements, comprehensive healthcare, and the opportunity for international assignment with all the necessary relocation support.
How well do you feel the role is preparing you for your future career?
5/5
The variety and breadth of experiences offered in the graduate programme have significantly prepared me for a future career in operations and beyond. By rotating through different functional areas—such as qualiy, digital and supply chain - I have developed a holistic understanding of the pharmaceutical operations ecosystem. Structured training, mentorship from experienced leaders, and exposure to real business challenges mean I am gaining both the technical and leadership skills needed to step into larger roles after the programme.
How would you rate the extent to which you were developing new or existing skills through formal training and your day-to-day role?
5/5
Skill development is a core focus of the programme. Through a combination of formal training sessions, online learning modules, workshops, and on-the-job experiences, I have developed new technical and soft skills. Day-to-day project work allows me to apply what I’ve learned, while regular feedback from managers and mentors accelerates my progress. For example, I have improved my project management, data analysis, cross-functional collaboration, and communication skills.
Experience & Company Culture
How is the support you receive?
5/5
The support I have received throughout the Operations Graduate Programme has been comprehensive and thoughtfully structured. HR has been proactive and approachable from the start, handling onboarding, placement logistics, and ongoing programme communication with efficiency and care. Line managers in each rotation have shown investment in my learning, providing clear guidance, accessible supervision, and regular feedback to help me navigate project challenges and identify personal development goals.
Having a dedicated mentor and a buddy has also been invaluable. My mentor (a senior leader not directly involved in my daily work) has challenged me to think strategically about my career and personal growth, offering insights into both the business and long-term leadership development. My buddy, a recent programme graduate, served as an informal source of advice and encouragement, especially during the first few months when adapting to the company’s culture and daily routines.
Having a dedicated mentor and a buddy has also been invaluable. My mentor (a senior leader not directly involved in my daily work) has challenged me to think strategically about my career and personal growth, offering insights into both the business and long-term leadership development. My buddy, a recent programme graduate, served as an informal source of advice and encouragement, especially during the first few months when adapting to the company’s culture and daily routines.
How is your work-life balance?
5/5
AstraZeneca places real emphasis on work-life balance, and my personal experience reflects this commitment. While the nature of the rotations and project work sometimes means certain weeks are busier than others - especially when deadlines approach - I have generally had manageable project loads and reasonable expectations regarding out-of-hours work. The company’s approach to flexible and hybrid working, including the option to work remotely when the role allows, has enabled me to maintain a healthy balance between my professional responsibilities and personal life.
There is strong support for mental and physical wellbeing through wellness programmes, employee assistance lines, and onsite resources (such as gyms and wellbeing seminars). Managers regularly check in about workload and wellbeing, and there’s a culture that encourages taking breaks and using annual leave.
There is strong support for mental and physical wellbeing through wellness programmes, employee assistance lines, and onsite resources (such as gyms and wellbeing seminars). Managers regularly check in about workload and wellbeing, and there’s a culture that encourages taking breaks and using annual leave.
What is the organisational culture, values and general atmosphere like?
5/5
The organisational culture at AstraZeneca is inclusive, positive, and purpose-driven. From the first day, I felt welcomed by colleagues, and there is a strong sense of belonging throughout the company. People are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work, and everyone’s contributions are respected, regardless of seniority or background. The values - such as following the science, putting patients first, and acting with integrity - are not just slogans, but are visible in day-to-day decision-making and team interactions.
Hybrid and remote working policies are mature and flexible; most roles allow a mixture of in-person and remote work depending on business needs. For me, this has supported my productivity and personal wellbeing and helped manage the demands of international relocations during rotations.
Hybrid and remote working policies are mature and flexible; most roles allow a mixture of in-person and remote work depending on business needs. For me, this has supported my productivity and personal wellbeing and helped manage the demands of international relocations during rotations.
How would you rate AstraZeneca initiatives when it comes to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility?
5/5
How would you rate AstraZeneca CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives?
5/5
AstraZeneca’s CSR initiatives stand out as strategic and impactful, with a clear focus on both environmental stewardship and positive contributions to society. Programmes like “Young Health,” which promotes youth health in underserved areas, and targets for net zero carbon emissions reflect a strong ethical stance. Employees are encouraged to participate in volunteering days and local initiatives, and the company often matches employee charitable efforts, strengthening the link between individual action and wider impact.
There have also been engaging awareness events, such as sustainability weeks, fundraising challenges, and workshops focused on ethical sourcing practices. These not only help employees feel aligned with AstraZeneca’s mission, but also deepen awareness of broader challenges facing the world.
AstraZeneca’s approach to societal and environmental responsibility is both comprehensive and authentic. The company has ambitious goals for reducing its carbon footprint and has made visible progress in adopting green technologies and minimizing waste at manufacturing sites. Ethically, there is a strong culture of integrity, reflected in robust compliance processes and transparent communication.
Community engagement and volunteering are encouraged through annual volunteering days, partnerships with global and local charities, and regular fundraising campaigns. Participation in such initiatives is recognized and supported by management, and I have personally enjoyed the opportunity to contribute to local community health projects during my time on the programme. The alignment of business goals with social responsibility makes it easier to take pride in working for AstraZeneca.
There have also been engaging awareness events, such as sustainability weeks, fundraising challenges, and workshops focused on ethical sourcing practices. These not only help employees feel aligned with AstraZeneca’s mission, but also deepen awareness of broader challenges facing the world.
AstraZeneca’s approach to societal and environmental responsibility is both comprehensive and authentic. The company has ambitious goals for reducing its carbon footprint and has made visible progress in adopting green technologies and minimizing waste at manufacturing sites. Ethically, there is a strong culture of integrity, reflected in robust compliance processes and transparent communication.
Community engagement and volunteering are encouraged through annual volunteering days, partnerships with global and local charities, and regular fundraising campaigns. Participation in such initiatives is recognized and supported by management, and I have personally enjoyed the opportunity to contribute to local community health projects during my time on the programme. The alignment of business goals with social responsibility makes it easier to take pride in working for AstraZeneca.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend AstraZeneca to a friend because it is an organisation where early-career professionals can truly make a difference while growing in a supportive and global environment. The company invests heavily in graduate development through structured rotations, tailored mentorship, and meaningful project work that impacts patient lives around the world. AstraZeneca’s open and inclusive culture, commitment to innovation, and strong values create a workplace where you can bring your best self, learn continuously, and feel pride in your contribution. If you’re looking for a place where your work matters, your development is prioritised, and your wellbeing is valued, AstraZeneca stands out as an outstanding choice.
How well did the role match your expectations based on the recruitment process?
5/5
The role has closely matched, and in some cases exceeded, my expectations formed during the recruitment process. The information provided was transparent about the varied and challenging nature of the rotations, the opportunities for international assignments, and the high level of support available. Once I began, I was impressed by the readiness of teams to welcome graduates, the real responsibility entrusted to us, and the commitment to personal and professional development that was promised during interviews. Any adjustment came mainly from adapting to the fast pace and the scale of operations - which, while demanding, has made the experience even more rewarding.
When considering the recruitment & onboarding process, have you any specific tips or advice you would give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
If you’re considering applying, my advice would be to invest time in really understanding AstraZeneca’s values and mission, as these shape everything about the programme and the culture. During interviews, focus on demonstrating your motivation to learn, your adaptability, and your passion for both science and patient outcomes. Be prepared to talk through real examples of teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership from your own experiences, even if they’re from outside of work or academics.
For the onboarding process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your HR contact or your assigned buddy with questions, and take full advantage of networking opportunities during the induction period. This is a great time to build relationships and set yourself up for a successful transition into the company.
For the onboarding process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your HR contact or your assigned buddy with questions, and take full advantage of networking opportunities during the induction period. This is a great time to build relationships and set yourself up for a successful transition into the company.
