Can you briefly describe your role at Amazon?

I am Responsible for the Inbound function within an Amazon warehouse.

This involves weekly and quarterly planning for productivity and headcounts. I have a team of five direct reports (Operations Manager’s) with a further 12 managers in the reporting line and up to 900 front line associates in the inbound team. Other responsibilities involve creating strategies for implementation of projects and improvements across operations and associate engagement.

 

What made you want to step forward for this course?

I was asked as a high performing Operations Manager if I was interested in obtaining a Master’s degree through the apprenticeship program. As I do not hold any tertiary level qualifications, I felt it was an opportunity I should not turn down.

 

What has been the impact of the course? Have you any examples of projects/work you have completed using knowledge learnt on the course?

I have only just started to implement some of my learnings from the course. As Amazon is a change driven innovative company at heart a lot of what we learned up to now has been in place within Amazon and our roles already. The PLAC (Personal Leadership and Change) module however has been most impactful and I have started to work with colleagues to understand the culture and effect it is having on our leaders.

 

What have you enjoyed the most about your studies?

My initial reason for taking the course was to gain a Master’s qualification and create more opportunities for myself in my career. I have however now realised I am learning a lot that will make me a more complete leader that can operate at higher levels comfortably. But more importantly I have now begin to think differently about my role and actions as a leader.

  

On completion of your course, how do you see this helping your career opportunities?

I think the MSc will create a better initial impression of me should I wish to pursue a career outside of Amazon. For my career in Amazon, the knowledge I will gain and the change in how I think about executing my role will make me more strategic and effective. This is itself will prepare me to deliver more effectively in alternative/more senior roles.

 

What’s the best piece of advice you could give someone thinking about doing a degree apprenticeship at post-graduate level?

At the very start understand the time commitment fully, ensure your work/family life allows that commitment. Do not think about the course as a means to gain a qualification, approach it fully as a learning opportunity.