Supply Chain Apprentice Review

I am a supply chain apprenticeship at GSK and my day-to-day role is currently based within Logistics Planning. In this role I plan a production line, scheduling orders, liaising with markets and suppliers, and also looking at longer term planning forecasts.

I have learnt an array of new skills, mainly on computer systems such as SAP that are required in my role. I have also been on a rotation on my apprenticeship spending time in other departments such as the warehouse, and site launch. In these areas I have hugely developed my communication skills as I have had to meet new people on a daily basis and work with them. This has also developed my confidence massively and has made my transition into the workplace smoother.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme through several aspects, but it is mainly my friendly and encouraging team that make coming to work enjoyable. My role is in an environment that is open to a lot of pressure and stress, but by working with a team of experienced people, I feel that they are helping me progress. The culture of GSK as a company is safe, professional, and trusting, and all employees live the GSK values. I feel as though the majority of the programme has met my expectations, and I have enjoyed it.

I do feel values as GlaxoSmithKline as they invest heavily in apprentices and put on yearly events to improve our networking across the scheme. These events also allow you to see you are valued by the company as they are helping you develop your career. I feel as though sometimes the appreciation from certain managers could be greater, however this is depending on the persons management style and the area of the business. I do feel as though my immediate colleagues value my input and opinion.

The induction process at GSK for apprentices was basic when I joined but I know there is now a more thorough 3 day induction which makes the process less daunting for young people. The training is sufficient as we have an online training plan, with courses and SOPs and if you miss the deadline it is taken seriously that you are out of compliance. My studying with GSK is of an excellent standard as I am completing a degree in International Trade and a level 5 diploma in Supply Chain Management. Although this means that you have to dedicate time outside of work to study, it is an amazing opportunity and these qualifications will give me the head start that I need when progressing further in my career. The only organisational issue with the programme is that the rotations did not work as planned, however there is now a system in place to make sure that the on going rotation plan is more beneficial.

My training provide for level 5 diploma in Supply Chain Management is good at supporting us. I travel to London for 2 days every other month to receive the college work, tutoring and training and then we take the work away and complete it. The University is also good at supporting us with degree studies and the guidance with problems and attitude towards helping us, is all dependant on who the module leader is at the time.

GSK do support apprentices for the full length of the scheme however the management support could be better. I feel this is mainly because managing an apprentice is different to managing normal employees and this could be a lack of experience from managers. My mentor has been excellent in my development and has invested heavily in my training.

The salary and package of GSK is exceptional for apprentices and is high above the apprenticeship NMW. I manage to cover living costs, travel costs (travelling approx. 200 miles per week) and I still manage to cover social costs and holidays etc.

There are so many opportunities outside of work. Some of which I have been involved in is the "GSK experience" a business event in London. "The outward bound" a weeks long team building course in the lake district. There is also careers fairs, open events, and community projects to get involved with. We have held charity events, raffles, bake sales etc. There is also a gym located on site at a very reasonable cost. Also because the apprenticeship and IP scheme is growing, we have a group of us who organise social events outside of work. I am also on NxtGen which is GSKs national apprentice team.

Yes

The overall experience on the programme has been enjoyable and a really good starting point for my career.

Take plenty of time with the application process, check for grammatical errors as this could make a huge difference on first impressions. Assessment days can be daunting but stay calm and come across as happy and confident (but not too confident).