Industrial Placement - Supply Chain Review

Typical 'buyer' activities, raising purchase orders, expediting, going out to suppliers for quotes, assisting team members with their above responsibilities, supplier performance management (quality, SHE, OTIF/ROR reviews) risk management (eg. suppliers response to semiconductor shortages/geopolitical conflicts.

General business practice and awareness through engaging in meetings and in person with a wide range of colleagues. Exceptional development to my IT skills in regards to Microsoft Office programs, specifically excel which I used on a daily basis. Written and verbal communication development. Time management and organisation through balancing multiple tasks, sometimes for different teams/departments.

I would say I was given lots of responsibility, with my managers being quite flexible on the number and degree to which I was involved with projects. Occasionally I would have to cover for colleagues whilst they were away/on leave which although at the time was out of my comfort zone, in retrospect these opportunities were really beneficial.

I received an adequate amount of support on my placement, often from colleagues who were not directly involved with early careers etc. However, I felt that some people I engaged with in the company were not really receptive to me as an industrial placement student (for example I often had to bring my manager in for escalations). Sometimes my team were also exceptionally busy and so were unable to give support during these periods.

Generally the company culture and atmosphere is positive, particularly given that some fellow IPs have mentioned that the older workforce of the company detracted somewhat from this - personally this was not an issue for me at all. Working on really exciting projects looking after equipment for the Navy and wider MOD was immensely rewarding. My location meant I often worked closely with contractors and members of the Navy which was really insightful.

I really enjoyed my placement, initially I was a little apprehensive but always thought I would enjoy my time working, however I am pleased to say it exceeded my expectations. My daily tasks were regularly engaging and I was always allowed to stretch myself personally, for example through getting involved with the companies internal Sustainability Working Group (SWG). I particularly enjoyed working with all my colleagues in office who made me feel valued throughout.

Yes

Be honest in the application process - this is as important for any application, if you do not present yourself you may end up in a placement not right for you. Having said that, I would certainly encourage anyone to apply - there are lots of exciting opportunities within the company and so many different projects/teams to potentially work for.