So, Gemma, where did you begin your scheme?

I started in Corporate Procurement and then went to work in Sweden for E.ON Nordic in the E.ON Sverige business unit.

And where are you now?

I'm now coming to the end of my placement in Energy Wholesale Procurement and my next placement will be within the Logistics team.

What development opportunities have you had?

I've had many development opportunities and completed several Procurement Academy courses and graduate training modules. I'm working towards achieving a professional qualification from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply and I've joined the Procurement Leadership Development Programme. I've even had the chance to attend Swedish language lessons.

What's it like to work in your current team?

Due to the diverse nature of the work and the team, we work very autonomously and the atmosphere is productive and fast paced. The members of the team are supportive, friendly and approachable.

What are your major challenges?

I come from a commercial background, and I have a lot to learn about the technical aspect of the job, so gaining an understanding of procurement is a new and exciting challenge. The procurement department is the key point of contact between suppliers and the business, so good planning, communication and co-ordination skills are essential for the job. Problem solving skills and the ability to remain customer focused at all times are equally important.

What's been a highlight for you so far?

I've had two major highlights to date. During my first placement in Corporate Procurement I worked with a colleague to establish the new three-year employee assistance programme contract. This provides all E.ON UK employees and immediate family members with free advice and support on a range of life events. This placement enabled me to gain an understanding of the end-to-end tender process and has introduced me to the broad range of Procurement activities.

My second highlight was my placement in Mälmo, Sweden where I worked within E.ON Sverige Inköp (E.ON Sweden Procurement). I was involved in responsible procurement, which is a topic of growing importance.

So where next for you?

I want to keep up this fast-paced level of learning after the graduate scheme has finished. Over the next few years I will gain further procurement expertise and experience of working in across E.ON UK and to make the most of international opportunities within the group when they present themselves.

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