Direct Materials Buyer Review

Overall the placement was very enjoyable. Not only do Vauxhall give you an insight into the whole company, you have real responsibilities and roles within the organisation, you are treated the same as any other employee as opposed to an intern. The role and responsibilities are challenging yet rewarding, the scheme allows you to develop an understanding of not only your role but the part you play in a team and department.

I was made to feel very welcome by everyone within the Global Purchasing and Supply Chain department, not just Direct Purchasing. Everybody is very friendly and extremely helpful. As for my specific team, I did feel valued I was part of a small UK team, your contribution really does count.

In purchasing there are various different computer systems that are particularly tricky to use upon your arrival. Like anything, it does take time to familiar yourself with the systems and in what capacity you use them. However, my manager was more than helpful in helping and ensuring my progression with using the neccessary programmes. Other than computer programmes, my manager was more than welcoming in any questions and problems I encountered. In addition, my manager was very supporting in allowing me to attend any training to help further my knowledge and understanding.

There is always something to do! The work is mix between routine and ad hoc. There are some daily tasks that do need to be completed but at the same time you will never have a day that is the same as the last. With the mix of the two you can be sure that there is always work to be done whether that involves contracting, sourcing projects, analysing quote packages or meetings with suppliers.

The responsilibility I was given during my placement surprised me. The level of imporatance of your work in some cases really does highlight how much trust Vauxhall put into their placement students and how the placement role is treated the same as a normal employee.

The skills I have learnt at this placement will no doubt put me in good practise and scope for my final year studeis. During the placement, there are many different skills that you require and develop; not least communication, prioritization, time management and organisation. Beyond my degree studies, I am sure that this experience will provide me with a great stepping stone both in terms of working within this organisation and what I have learnt.

The atmosphere in the office is relaxed. There is a good and suitable balance between getting down to work and communicating and having a chat with colleagues.

The placement scheme is very well run. There are over 100 placement students here at Vauxhall and considering that, opportunities for the interns are presented.

To date I have had training in the following; Purchasing Systems (GPS,SAP,E²,Sharepoint) Microsoft Excel (Beginner to Advanced) Benchmarking

To date, there is not a graduate scheme in place but it so, it would be on my list to apply!

There are social events every week that you can get involved in.

Rent and living, considering it is close to London, is very reasonable and affordable.

Pubs and clubs in Luton are cheap! Watford and London are only around 30 mins away if you wanted to drift further a field.

It is a great place to work and there are always opportunities outside of work from Tuesday night football to Thursday night basketball.