Undergraduate Junior Buyer Review
by The Co-op
Rating
-
Skills
5.0
-
Responsibilities
5.0
-
Support & Guidance
5.0
-
Culture
4.8
-
Your Impressions
5.0
- 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis.
- 2. Have you learnt any new skills, or developed your existing skills?
- How would you rate the training provided during your experience?
- How would you rate your development of industry-specific skills during the experience?
- How would you rate your development of personal / soft skills during the experience?
- Please rate how these skills have helped you in your career development
- 3. Were you given much responsibility during your placement / internship?
- Please rate how meaningful the work you were doing was
- 4. How much support and guidance did you receive during your placement / internship?
- How would you rate the support and guidance from your line manager?
- How would you rate the support and guidance from the wider team?
- 5. What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?
- How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
- How would you rate the social opportunities?
- How would you rate the diversity initiatives?
- How would you rate the charity, sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives?
- 6. To what extent did you enjoy your placement / internship?
- Please rate your level of enjoyment on your placement / internship
- Please rate how your experience met your expectations
- Please rate the future employment prospects at The Co-op
- 7. Would you recommend The Co-op to a friend?
- 8. What advice would you give to others applying to The Co-op
Overview
Assist in the purchasing of new products that are both commercially viable, as well as attractive to customers. This involves building key relationship with suppliers and negotiating on costs and promotional activity. The role also involves maintaining accurate data records and running bespoke reports to understand category performance. The role also involves visiting supplier manufacturing facilities and networking events.
Skills
During my time, I have really developed my relationship building skills and now feel confident meeting with suppliers. I now understand how different supplier strategies can be the difference between what is commercially viable and what isn't.
Responsibilities
I have been given full responsibility from day one over how i arrange my work day. There has also been moments during the year that my manager has been on annual leave and i have been given full responsibility of the category. This has been really beneficial for my development.
Support & Guidance
During the first 3 weeks, i had loads of introductions set up to understand how the business works further. I have also had numerous coaching sessions throughout the year that have helped develop some of my soft skills. For the whole year, I have also had a buddy that has mentored and trained me on all aspects on the role.
Culture
Everyone in the company are both friendly and approachable. They are always looking to find ways to be collaborative and work towards the businesses objectives. This is a great place to work!!
Your Impressions
This has been an amazing placement that I would recommend anyone to if they wish to get into buying. Everyone cares about you development and wants the best for you. I have managed to extend my stay with the co-op and will be looking for further opportunities for growth. The placement if very flexible and the hybrid-working means you can work from anywhere.
Yes
If buying sounds like something you want to get into then go for it. It is a brilliant company to work for and would recommend it to anyone. Make sure you prepare for your interview and do plenty of research for the technical presentation.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
Purchasing and Supply
North West
May 2024
