Apprenticeships continue to play a vital role in developing skilled procurement and supply chain professionals. In this learner story, we speak to a Supply Chain and Commercial Manager who shares how completing a Procurement and Supply apprenticeship with CIPS helped formalise their experience, build confidence and support career progression.
Could you tell us a bit about your role and what you do day-to-day? How did you fall into procurement?
I’m the Supply Chain and Commercial Manager for a bank note substrate printer, and my tasks vary from day to day as I cover several different aspects, from procurement and manufacturing planning to logistics – so every day brings a new challenge. I started out working in warehousing and did this for a few years before progressing into a logistics-based role. From there, I eventually climbed into a Supply Chain Manager role. My background has been really advantageous, as I’ve worked in and understand several different parts of the industry.
What motivated you to take an apprenticeship in Procurement and Supply?
Although I had a lot of on-the-job experience, I had never been formally trained in procurement. It was something I felt would help me get to the next level in my career.
What were the biggest challenges along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Time management is something you need to be really conscious of with the apprenticeship – and with CIPS in general. There is an extensive range of subjects covered in the syllabus that need to be learned and often revised.
Making sure I used my allocated off-the-job hours, alongside blocking out time outside of work, really helped keep me on track.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their apprenticeship or CIPS journey?
Ask as many questions as possible during your tutor-led sessions. For me, that was the best time to have something explained before going off to do further research on my own.
There’s probably someone else in the class wanting to ask the same question, so be confident enough to put yourself out there if you don’t understand something.
Which topics or modules have been most useful in your role?
Understanding the procurement cycle as a whole has been incredibly useful. Even when you’re not directly procuring goods or services, you can still apply the tools and models that CIPS teaches to everyday work-related tasks.
Do you have any study tips?
Find the study tools that suit your learning style and stick with them. I found doing practice exams really helpful, and there’s some great material available on platforms like Udemy.
I also used AI tools to help explain concepts in the context of my own industry. Once I understood something from a manufacturing perspective, it really sank in because that’s where most of my work experience sits. This was especially helpful when it came to written exams, as I had clear examples to draw on.
How has the apprenticeship helped you in your role or confidence at work?
The apprenticeship has given me a much stronger understanding of the theory behind the responsibilities I handle day to day. That’s helped me make more informed decisions and approach tasks with greater clarity.
It’s also boosted my confidence when speaking with colleagues, suppliers and customers. I feel more comfortable challenging assumptions, contributing ideas and engaging in professional conversations.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship?
Personally, I believe apprenticeships are a great way to combine theory-based learning with real, on-the-job experience. CIPS can open up a wide range of opportunities and can be the starting point for a successful career in procurement and supply.
What’s next for you?
Since completing my apprenticeship, I’ve gone on to complete my CIPS Level 5 Diploma in Procurement and Supply. I’m now taking a short break and hope to start my CIPS Level 6 later this year.
Thinking about starting a Procurement and Supply apprenticeship?
Whether you’re new to procurement or looking to formalise your experience, an apprenticeship with Aspire can help you build confidence, capability and long-term career progression.
Explore Aspire’s Procurement and Supply apprenticeships or get in touch to find out which level is right for you.
