Supply Chain Management Degree Apprentice Review

by DHL

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.4/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Currently gaining experience in entry level warehouse operational roles to have an understanding of the operation from the ground up. Learning day to day processes and developing my network on site whilst networking externally with apprentices on my university degree course.

6/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have developed my communication and teamwork skills as a result of working within teams in the warehouse and having discussions with colleagues and managers from varying levels of seniority. I have also developed my organisational skills as a result of balancing full time work with study.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Despite my placement being in a challenging site with a number of issues, I am hoping to improve my situation and get involved in upcoming projects and initiatives to improve the site. This would increase my enjoyment as I will be working in areas which I can enjoy my work.

6/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I have a training plan, however I often find myself having to introduce myself to managers who are not expecting me. I also have a different contract to everyone else on site, meaning annual leave can be complicated. However, my training plan gives me some structure and benefits my development.

6/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive monthly check in emails from the apprenticeship team, who offer to organise a call with whoever needs it. I have raised a couple of problems with the team who are always responsive but they aren't always able to provide direct support as they aren't based onsite

6/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I have a weekly webinar with my lecturers and my class. They offer support outside of this weekly time slot, with emails and teams calls. However, sometimes they do not reply to emails or can take a very long time to get back.

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

There is a wide breadth of transferrable knowledge which I have gained and will gain from my qualification that I am studying for alongside my job. The knowledge I have gained so far has provided me with a greater understanding of the industry I am working in.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Unfortunately there are not many extra curricular activities offered at my site. I believe Covid has had an impact on the availability of these kind of sessions and hopefully the will become more common when it is safer and restrictions are lifted.

5/10

9a. Would you recommend DHL to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I believe DHL is a company which has shown its excellence especially over the last year, with its work regarding supporting the supply chain sector throughout the Covid pandemic. The Go Green initiative represents their dedication to sustainability and being an environmentally friendly employer.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to DHL?

Research all the great things the company takes part in before applying and be ready to discuss these with your future colleagues in the application process. This will provide you with an understanding of the organisation when you start which is important in a global company.