Felicity Gemmell is currently completing her Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship with Rolls-Royce through Oxford Professional Education. Read on as Felicity shares her experiences with her apprenticeship and the positive impact it has had on her career at Rolls-Royce.
What was your background before starting your apprenticeship?
Before starting my apprenticeship, I studied A-Levels in Business, Chemistry and Psychology. I knew University wasn’t the right option for me as I wanted to get stuck into the world of work- learning while earning! I applied for the Procurement Higher Apprenticeship Rolls-Royce were offering and here I am!
Why did you decide to sign up to the apprenticeship?
I thought the apprenticeship was a great opportunity to gain valuable experience working in a large company, whilst they pay and support you through the CIPS qualification. From the options you are presented with when you leave school, the apprenticeship route definitely stood out to me. I have been able to develop and grow both personally and professionally whilst gaining independence.
How are you finding the apprenticeship?
I am absolutely loving the apprenticeship, the best decision I have ever made was to go down this route. The support I have received and endless opportunities to develop is what I love most about being an apprentice at both OxPEG and Rolls-Royce.
How does the apprenticeship support your daily work?
At Rolls-Royce, we are given a ‘study day’ off work every week to help support us with our workload from the college. We also have regular ‘tri-party’ check ins, with a representative from the college and our apprentice develop lead from R-R. They ensure that both our physical and mental wellbeing are supported, and check if there is anything else we need/they can do to help us.
Tell us about the company and what your job role involves?
The company I work for is a Multinational Aerospace and Defence Company. I work in the procurement category as a procurement apprentice. Throughout my apprenticeship, I have rotated around many roles in the function. My job role involves developing and maintaining relationships with our suppliers and partners, negotiating contracts and deals, writing and understanding complex contracts and much more!
How does Oxford Professional Education support you in your apprenticeship?
OxPEG have supported myself and my cohort throughout the entirety of my apprenticeship. They are always there to listen and help with anything. As I mentioned previously we have frequent catch ups with a rep from the college, but we also receive lots of support from our tutor(s). They are the best!
What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting an apprenticeship?
Take every opportunity that comes your way and embrace it, don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable and you can accomplish anything!
Oxford Professional Education offer a range of marketing, project management, and procurement apprenticeships. If you are interested in completing an apprenticeship or would like to hire an apprentice for your company, get in touch with our team to find out more.