Vandana Priya: Project Supply Chain Manager
Vandana Priya
MSc Supply Chain and Logistics Management, 2022
Based in: UK
Formerly from: India
First job: Global Procurement Specialists at National Grid (Contractor)
Ambitions for the future: Looking ahead, I aim to continue advancing in the field of supply chain management, taking on more strategic leadership roles. I aspire to contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient supply chain practices that drive positive impact for the business and the environment. Additionally, I am committed to mentoring and supporting the next generation of supply chain professionals, sharing my knowledge and experience to help them succeed in their careers.
Project Supply Chain Manager at Hitachi Energy
Describe your current role and what attracted you to it.
In my current role, I am responsible for setting the supply chain strategy for projects during both the tender and execution phases. I lead the interface with internal and external supply chain partners, ensuring seamless collaboration. My responsibilities include end-to-end management of the supply chain for products, materials, and services within the Grid Integration Business. I work closely with other functions to align supplier orders with customer requirements, covering scope, commercial and contractual aspects, technical specifications, quality, delivery schedules, sustainability, and price.
I initiate and negotiate purchase orders, contracts, and supplier agreements in accordance with business processes and procedures. Additionally, I oversee supplier performance, focusing on on-time delivery, quality, and lead time, and resolve any performance issues that arise. I also identify and qualify new suppliers in cooperation with Supplier Quality and Engineering specialists. Living the core values of safety and integrity is paramount in my role, which means taking responsibility for my actions while caring for my colleagues and the business.
I was attracted to this role because of the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment where I can leverage my expertise in supply chain management to drive impactful results. The chance to lead strategic initiatives and interface with diverse stakeholders appealed to my passion for problem-solving and continuous improvement. Additionally, the emphasis on safety and integrity aligns with my personal values, making this role a perfect fit for my professional aspirations.
What’s your favourite part of the role?
My favourite part of my role is the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders, both internal and external. This interaction allows me to build strong relationships and work towards common goals. I enjoy the challenge of negotiating contracts and supplier agreements, as it requires a strategic approach and strong communication skills. Additionally, overseeing supplier performance and resolving issues gives me a sense of accomplishment, knowing that I am contributing to the success of the projects and the business.
What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?
At Warwick, I developed a strong supply chain and logistics management foundation, including Strategic Planning, Procurement, Inventory management, and Management of Change. Exposure to modules like these has made my personality and career stand out in many aspects. The collaborative environment helped me hone my communication and teamwork skills, while the emphasis on practical projects provided valuable hands-on experience. Additionally, the exposure to industry trends and best practices has been instrumental in my career growth.
My dissertation at Warwick University has been instrumental in my career success, particularly in acing interviews and earning the prestigious WMG Excellence Scholarship Award. The in-depth research and analysis conducted during my MSc in Supply Chain and Logistics Management provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the field, which has given me a significant edge in interviews.
Moreover, the dissertation has equipped me with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which are highly valued in the industry. By presenting my research findings and discussing the methodologies used, I have been able to take control of interviews, highlighting my capability to drive strategic initiatives and deliver impactful results.
Earning the WMG Excellence Scholarship Award further validated my academic achievements and commitment to excellence. This recognition has not only boosted my confidence but also enhanced my credibility in the eyes of potential employers. It serves as a testament to my dedication and hard work, reinforcing my suitability for roles in supply chain and logistics management.
Did you have a specific career path in mind when you chose to study at Warwick?
Yes, I chose to study at Warwick with the goal of advancing my career in supply chain and logistics management. The program's strong reputation and comprehensive curriculum aligned with my aspirations to develop expertise in this field and take on strategic leadership roles in the future.
What top tips do you have for Warwick graduates who would like to work in your sector?
Job Applications: Apply for roles that align with your career goals and be persistent in your job search. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Career Services: Utilize the career services offered by Warwick for job placements, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
Industry Events: Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with professionals in the utility sector.
Alumni Network: Leverage the University of Warwick's alumni network to seek advice and mentorship from graduates working in the industry.
Internships and Projects: Seek internships or project opportunities within the utility sector to gain hands-on experience. This will help you understand the unique challenges and requirements of the industry.
Industry-Specific Roles: Look for roles that involve high-voltage electrical and mechanical products, control and protection systems, as these are often critical in the utility sector.
Core Values: Embrace the core values of safety and integrity, which are paramount in the utility industry. Demonstrating responsibility and care for your colleagues and the business will help you build a strong reputation.
Communication and Negotiation: Develop strong communication and negotiation skills, as these are essential for collaborating with stakeholders and managing supplier relationships.
Problem-Solving: Cultivate a solutions-oriented approach to tackle challenges effectively and drive continuous improvement.
Dissertation: Last but not least, the dissertation plays a massive role when getting interviewed in the UK Employment sector
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me involves a mix of strategic planning and operational tasks. I start by reviewing the status of ongoing projects and supplier performance metrics. I then participate in meetings with internal teams and external suppliers to discuss project requirements, negotiate contracts, and address any issues that may arise. Throughout the day, I collaborate with other functions to ensure alignment of supplier orders with customer requirements. I also spend time identifying and qualifying new suppliers, as well as monitoring and resolving performance issues. My day is dynamic and requires a balance of strategic thinking and attention to detail.
What has been your greatest career challenge to date and how did your experience and skills help overcome it?
My greatest career challenge to date has been managing complex supply chain projects with tight deadlines and high stakes. My experience in supply chain and logistics management, coupled with strong organizational and negotiation skills, has helped me navigate these challenges effectively. By maintaining clear communication with stakeholders and leveraging my problem-solving abilities, I have been able to ensure successful project outcomes.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given in relation to your career?
The best piece of advice I've been given is to embrace challenges and view them as opportunities for growth. Every obstacle presents a chance to learn and improve, and approaching challenges with a positive mindset can lead to innovative solutions and personal development. Additionally, maintaining integrity and professionalism in all interactions is key to building a strong reputation and fostering trust with colleagues and partners.
What’s the strangest interview question you’ve ever been asked?
One of the strangest interview questions I've ever been asked was: "If you were a supply chain process, which one would you be and why?" This question was quite unexpected, but it turned out to be a creative way for the interviewer to understand my thought process and how I view my role within the supply chain. I chose to describe myself as the "Just-In-Time (JIT) inventory process" because it reflects my focus on efficiency, minimizing waste, and ensuring timely delivery, which are all critical aspects of my approach to supply chain management.
What should current students or recent alumni be doing to move their careers forward?
Current students and recent alumni should focus on gaining practical experience through internships and projects, actively networking within the industry, and continuously learning through modules and courses. Developing strong communication and problem-solving skills is crucial, as is leveraging university resources such as career services and the alumni network. Staying informed about industry trends and being proactive in job applications will also help in moving their careers forward.
What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were applying for jobs?
I wish I had known the importance of networking and building relationships within the industry. While technical skills and experience are crucial, the ability to connect with others and leverage those relationships can significantly impact career growth and opportunities. Additionally, understanding the value of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and best practices is essential for long-term success.