Grace
Indirect Purchasing Degree Apprentice · BMW Group
For me, I was attracted to the apprenticeship route because of the opportunity to gain industry experience and a degree but without the student debt. Alongside my A-levels, I worked part-time in my local restaurant so it was important to me that I could remain financially independent. Taking on an apprenticeship meant I could get a head start on my career and develop both personally and professionally.
Chartered Manager (Management and Business) Level 6 - Abingdon and Witney College (affiliated with Oxford Brookes University)
Oxford
Something I really enjoy doing outside of work is watching gymnastics , from the age of three up until I was sixteen, I loved to compete and trained three times a week at my local club. I used to compete in regional gymnastics competitions around the UK. While I did love competing, these days I enjoy just sitting back and watching. Last summer I was lucky enough to visit the commonwealth games in my hometown of Birmingham and watch the amazing gymnasts. Another thing I love to do is baking and cooking, my specialty is chocolate brownies!
Resilience, Confidence, Adaptability, Communication, Leadership
Q&A with Grace
With Indirect Purchasing, i'm r esponsible for the procurement of all non-production goods and services for the UK and Ireland. Goods and Services include temporary labour , facilities management, IT and construction. We aim to purchase goods and services of the right quality, quantity, time, place and price. Part of my day-to-day activities include supplier negotiations, reviewing supplier databases and creating cost comparisons.
The highlight of my career so far must be visiting the Rolls-Royce plant down in Goodwood. Alongside the buyers, I am working on the procurement of the expansion project.
The biggest challenge of my career so far is balancing work, university and home life. Doing a full-time job, full time degree and trying to maintain a social life is a juggle for sure!
While it can be difficult at times, with the correct time-management techniques it is manageable.At BMW Group UK, we have a great support network at both work and university. I attend university every Tuesday, with regular one-to- ones and all lectures are available to contact via teams throughout the week. At work I also have a very supportive team with weekly one-to-ones with my manager, a dedicated mentor and an apprentice training advisor.
At the end of my apprenticeship, I hope to take on a Buyer role, specifically in construction and facilities management.
Within the application remain true to yourself and make sure to let the company know how you align to the missions and values of the company and let them know what makes you stand out.
