Why did you apply for the IT programme at DHL?
I have always been interested in technology and using it to make my life, and other people’s lives, easier. The IT programme at DHL drew me in as it gave me the freedom to explore new technologies and advocate for their usage within he business, whilst also grounding me with management and project skills which I can take forward with me into the future. I was also attracted to the diverse opportunities ahead of me at DHL, with the ability to work abroad, move career pathway and interact with a wide array of people.
What is your job role at DHL and can you tell us a bit about it?
Currently in my 2nd year, I am responsible for the rollout of a new portal for system access within Manufacturing Logistics. I have been given a lot of trust, and can take my own plan and ideas forward which has been great for developing my confidence. I have also been assisting with testing a new system developed in-house by DHL, which required me to quickly familiarise myself with the system and communicate well with the testing team.
I have found that the IT programme at DHL covers a huge array of areas, with your dialogue with your manager allowing you to focus on those which interest you the most. While there are technical roles within the business (development, implementation, configuration), there are numerous non-technical roles within IT. Those roles could be managing IT projects, aiding business understanding of new technologies, managing an IT product or supporting change activities.
What is the best thing you enjoy about being a graduate at DHL?
The best thing about being a graduate at DHL is the freedom I get to follow my own path, whilst being supported in those decisions by my peers and manager. I wanted to get more exposure to driving a project forward in my second year, so after discussion with my first year manager, the Emerging Talent team found my the perfect placement to fulfil those goals and help push forward my development. Furthermore, I am encouraged to make my own decisions, establishing confidence in myself to take ownership of the project and celebrate the successes and realign after failures.
What did you do in your first year?
My first year contained a variety of activities ranging from the scheme’s qualification modules (APM PFQ and ITIL) to deploying new technology into the business. Initially, I was given small tasks which allowed me to interact with a lot of people and get used to navigating around the business. I was also encouraged to visit sites across the country, giving me a wide range of perspectives into the business as each side has its own feel and priorities.
As I gained more responsibility, I led an on-site cost-saving exercise and workedwith senior leaders in the business to win new business by providing access to a new piece of digitalisation technology which brought the customer into the warehouse virtually. This gave me an insight into the business development side of DHL Supply Chain, showing how intrinsically linked IT is to every aspect of the business.
An underlying part of my first year was the creation of my development plan, a document which helps focus your learning on those aspects which interest you, and will progress you, the most. This has helped align the work I am doing to my goals, and ensured I have an idea of where I want to progress to in the future.