European Supply Chain Review

I work in European Supply Chain (Aftersales). It is my responsibility to ensure that parts are stocked in different warehouses across Europe. I have a small selection of suppliers whom I talk to (mainly based in Czech Republic), it is my responsibility to ensure that they are delivering their parts on time to our warehouses. I talk to other European Supply Chain Planners across Europe, ensuring parts are stocked sufficicently in each location (or warehouse across Europe - there are 5 main ones). I am also in contact with 3 customers - who buy parts in bulk. It is my responsibility to ensure that their orders can be fulfiled as quickly as possible and that they do not remain on backorder for very long.

During my time at Vauxhall I have been in 3 different departments; Customer Care, Human Resources and Aftersales. I have learnt plenty of skills too; - Excel - GM Software and Programmes - Communication by emails / in person - Presentation skills - Organisation I have also learnt about BCP (Business Continuity Planning) and have attended a BCP Training course to become an Auditor for the company.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my 3 years here. Customer Care was a good starting point. HR gave me the contacts and the knowledge of how the company cannot run without it's employees. Aftersales has challenged me and taken me out of my confort zone. With college as well, I have enjoyed the apprenticeship life, and would encourage those who haven't considered an apprenticeship to do so.

Apprentices have been given the responsibility of BCP Auditors - which is a big responsibility in itself. I do feel valued by the company, as I am given projects that directly contribute to the work that my department deals with.

The programme has evolved over time, and it is much more flexible for apprentices. We are given the control over our future, and are able to decide where we want to "home" after 3 years of the apprenticeship. I believe the first 3 years are an opportunity to move aroud the business and gain as much knowledge as possible.

I am able to learn on the job as well as learn in college too. College gives me the theory behind the working world, and gives us good advice of the world of work.

I am always able to talk to my employer about opporunities or problems that I have - either by dropping them and email or by ringing them.

I am able to save money as well as spend it, and have some more left over (I'm quite good at saving money anyway!) - the salary meets my needs.

We get involved with the CSR day (Corporate Social Responsibility), it means that we can get the opportunity to spend a day volunteering the community. It is a great way to spend time with colleagues or other employees of the company who you would never cross paths with!

Yes

I have been given a great opportunity, learning and earning at the same time - it's the best of both worlds. With a big company like Vauxhall, we are able to rotate around the business, and learn different functions of the company - this experience is key in business.

- Make sure you read about the company beforehand - Check your CV and Application form (make sure it's in tip top condition!) - Get some work experience either with Vauxhall or somewhere similar - Talk to your career advisor at school - Check around December time to see what we're recruiting for!