Indirect Pucrhasing Intern Review

Creating Purchase Orders – created from requests received all over the business within the UK and Ireland, managing requisitions under £100k. This requires communication with suppliers and business departments. Various systems used, including SAP SRM, SAP IFT and Coupa, depending on where the request is coming from. Small Value Orders (SVOs) - A Small Value Order is an order type within the BMW Group. They are for minor needs that are not usually recurring. They are not processed by purchasing but are instead audited quarterly to ensure that the process is followed correctly by the requisitioners. This topic had lost ownership due to changes in personnel within my department. It was therefore my responsibility to update how this audit was carried out so that it was more efficient, as well try to improve SVO compliance. The way we approached this is by presenting a plan of action to the Head of Finance along with the current issues within this topic. We then created a training guide which was sent to all departments as well as offering training sessions to non-compliant requisitioners. Larger Project Support – Supporting lead buyers with larger value projects. This would mainly include processing data using excel and communicating with suppliers. Managing Suppliers on the database – checking whether suppliers have a sufficient credit rating and if so then adding them to the system for people within the business to use, as well as updating any changes to a supplier’s details.

Excel Communication/Networking Time Management/Organisation

There was a level of responsibility up to a limit, as I would only deal with orders less than £100k on my own, the larger orders and projects I would just support. I believe this is appropriate as you have a sense of ownership over some work, but there is less pressure with the orders of lower value.

There was a 1-month handover period with the previous intern where you are taught everything for the role. Lots of training regarding compliance and data protection etc., as well as on-the-job training related to my roll. My manager was very approachable for when I had any queries. We also had a weekly catchup where we could talk about any issues I may be having in general.

Everyone is very friendly and willing to help. Also flexible working, whether it being working from home or different working hours.

I dont think the role is one that personally interest me that much as Id like there to be a bit more scope for creativity and critical thinking. However despite this the people are lovely and the work is very flexible. I also think in the future I would like to work for a smaller company as there is more opportunities for progression.

Yes

Make the most of the benefits that are offered