Alongside other events which we are attending and working in conjunction with our partners on, we spoke to procurement apprentice Julie Wainwright, as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2023.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
“My Lovell journey started when I took a temporary job on reception. I had just finished my degree in Applied Sport, Health & Exercise and needed something to keep me busy. It was mentioned to me by the procurement team that there was a job vacancy in their department for an apprentice and, as I had enjoyed working for Lovell, I decided I would take the opportunity to apply in the hope I would be able to continue working for Lovell on a permanent basis. I am so glad I did.”
What do you believe are the benefits of undertaking an apprenticeship?
“You get the opportunity to learn something new, gain qualifications and you get paid!”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?
“Yes, I have been given so much support and advice from the people around me. I’m in my mid-thirties but the apprenticeship was a no-brainer for me.”
How has your apprenticeship helped you to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career?
“The apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to take skills I have learnt from past jobs and really make a difference in my role in customer care. It has given me more confidence in my abilities, and it has been so nice to be trusted to be left to work on my own projects with the knowledge that help is there if needed. I have realised that I am capable of more than I imagined.”
How is your apprenticeship helping you to achieve your career goals?
“I never imagined I would work in construction, even though my dad is a carpenter. I feel that I have found my place at Lovell. I’m hopeful that my career can continue and grow after I finish my course.”
Julie is undertaking a Level 3 CIPS, which is equivalent to A Level/NVQ Level 3. A large part of Julie’s apprenticeship and role at Lovell involves managing an ordering and delivery process in the construction industry, building strong relationships with key suppliers and understanding the Importance of supplier relationship management.
Tim Young, regional procurement manager and ambassador for the Institute of Supply Chain Management said:
“Over the last year, Julie has become a crucial part of our business. Working together, we developed new and improved methods of managing the ordering to delivery process for our customer care team, which has resulted in a better service being provided to our customers.
“She has taken her studies and her work very seriously and it’s great to see someone grow in confidence, make a role their own and be a really good advocate of women in construction.
“I believe that there is no limit to how far she can go and it’s all down to her how far she wants to push the envelope.”
At Lovell, we are fully committed to our apprenticeship programme as a vital tool in bringing new talent and skills into our business and the construction industry. Our wide range of apprenticeships covers all areas of our business, from building new homes, through to property refurbishment and maintenance.
As a Lovell apprentice, you can be sure that you will receive the very best training and experience from one of the most respected construction firms in the UK. You will also be a part of the national Morgan Sindall Group plc.
Just some of the key benefits of undertaking an apprenticeship Lovell include:
- 22 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Lifestyle Hub
- Life cover
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Maternity leave
- Paternity leave
- Travel & fares
- Health assessments
To find out more about an apprenticeship with Lovell, you can visit our website, email us on [email protected], or contact your local college.
