Manufacturing Logistics Industrial Placement Review

I am a Line Manager for a team of drivers who deliver cars around the UK. On a day-to-day basis I oversee the operation and manage any changes such has cancelled deliveries or collections. I also have general management tasks such as approving holiday and holding 1-2-1 meetings with drivers to check up on how they are doing and what we can do as a team to give them more support.

I spent my first two weeks shadowing and working with the person who was on placement before me to learn the role. Once they left I was given the chance to work independently and do the same tasks as the other manager in my team. I was given lots of support and the opportunity to work on projects once I felt I had the ability to do them.

I have gained so many new skills from working with DHL Supply Chain. My management, leadership and communication skills have massively improved. I have gained invaluable experience in working a full-time job and being part of a complex operation, where new challenges are always occurring. I have learnt how to be proactive to prevent problems before the arise and to stay calm and think rationally when things don't go to plan.

I received lots of support from not only my team and manager in the office but also from the Next Generation Talent team. I had monthly 1-2-1's with my manager to catch up on my progress and outline any areas of difficulty, as well as being part of a very supportive team, who helped me with day-to-day tasks when I started the role.

The office had a great atmosphere with it being very open and everyone was very welcoming, whether they were in my team or not. Managers had an open door policy and were always open to conversation. There were lots of opportunities to go to events and network with people from other sites and get exposure to different areas of the business.

I loved being on placement with DHL Supply Chain. I really enjoyed working in a fast pace environment with lots of different challenges everyday. I was also given lots of opportunities to explore different areas of the business and meet new people. The job was challenging but I learnt so much from these and it was excellent for my development.

Yes