AstraZeneca Supply Chain Apprenticeships under the Microscope

AstraZeneca is a science-led, patient-focused global biopharmaceutical company –  a goal they strive for by being inventive and collaborative in their approach, as demonstrated with their impressive portfolio of products for major disease areas including oncology, cardiovascular renal & metabolism, respiratory and immunology.

They have over 76,000 employees in over 100 countries and they have a range of job roles which include; clinical development, regulatory and medical affairs, finance, manufacturing and supply chain.

Rising supply chain stars
AstraZeneca recognise that their success is due to their people, and that having an effective supply chain plays a huge part in supporting their business productivity and growth plans. In fact, such is the importance they place on their supply chain, that their ‘Responsible Supply Chain’ process framework, for building robust supplier relationships, even includes consideration of suppliers’ environmental and social practices.

To develop their rising supply chain stars, AstraZeneca has invested in the development of their supply chain degree apprentices to provide the deep understanding of the various functions and activities of a supply chain and how supply chain performance affects company financial results.

The supply chain degree apprenticeship offered by Supply Chain Academy and Leeds Trinity University met their need to focus on a flexible, work-based approach, with the level of student support we could give in the background.

Our Supply Chain Degree Apprenticeship covers planning, forecasting, logistics, warehousing, technology, procurement as well as other supply chain activities and uniquely, assessment is based upon how the learning is applied to real work projects. In addition, our faculty of experienced supply chain professionals and work-based tutors have over 30 years’ experience of working within various areas of the supply chain, so the language and materials used are highly relevant.

Kim Hardman, UK Apprentice Programme Manager at AstraZeneca said: “Working with the Supply Chain Academy and Leeds Trinity University has been an advantageous experience, as we link the realms of academia and commercial activity. They provide a lot of pastoral support and the work-based learning approach will have an on-going beneficial effect here in our organisation.”

Alex Mortimer, Director of the SCA said, “It is a privilege to work with AstraZeneca and to get to know them. We ensure that their apprentices learn the latest supply chain skills and add tangible value back at work.”

For more information about our apprenticeships contact Alex Mortimer, Commercial Director at am@supplychainacademy.org.uk or 01708 259 450.