GetMyFirstJob Ambassador
Hello, I Am Amy Spratt
I first became interested in apprenticeships while still in college. Although I enjoyed both working and studying, I wasn’t sure that university was the right path for me. I learn best through hands-on experiences, so the idea of working alongside experienced professionals who could share their knowledge and skills really appealed to me.
After researching apprenticeships, I realized it would be an incredible opportunity to develop my communication skills, build confidence, and gain workplace experience—all while earning a qualification that would kick-start my career.
Tell us more about your experience
I work as an Apprentice Buyer in the Procurement Team at Parker Meggitt, where I’m responsible for supporting various stages of the procurement cycle. My daily responsibilities involve developing and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring effective communication across the supply chain, and identifying and managing risks that could affect supply chain output. I often negotiate pricing with suppliers to secure competitive deals and evaluate supplier performance through key performance indicators (KPIs) to maintain high standards. My role requires using both indirect and direct procurement methods—indirect procurement typically involves sourcing services for internal needs and site operations, whilst direct procurement focuses on purchasing parts used directly in our products.
What is the most memorable experience of your career so far?
A standout moment for me was attending the Farnborough Airshow, where I represented the Parker Meggitt Apprenticeship Programme alongside other apprentices. This event was a fantastic opportunity to meet apprentices from other sites, connect with young people exploring apprenticeship options, and gain a deeper understanding of products manufactured across Parker Meggitt’s UK sites. Witnessing the airshow itself was an unforgettable experience—seeing the aircraft in action gave me a real sense of the impact of our work.
What has been your biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced so far has been transitioning from college to a full-time job. Initially, it was daunting, and I had to remind myself that I was there to learn—there are no “stupid” questions! Once I gained confidence, I became much more comfortable in my role, especially with the support of my amazing team. The Procurement Team has been my primary support network, always encouraging me and offering guidance.
How do Parker Meggitt support you?
The support I’ve received has been crucial to my progress. My employer is fully behind my ambitions, and my training provider, CIPS, has played a significant role by providing experienced tutors, frequent progress catch-up sessions, and comprehensive revision resources to prepare for exams.
What does your future look like for you?
I’m thoroughly enjoying my role in procurement and plan to continue my career in this field. After completing my current apprenticeship and achieving CIPS Level 4, my goal is to pursue CIPS Level 5 and 6 qualifications. I’ve discussed this with my employer, and I’m fortunate that they’re fully supportive of my decision to continue my studies and grow within the procurement profession.
What would your advice be to future apprentices?
Use your time in your apprenticeship to learn as much as possible and volunteer yourself for all opportunities that come up. You’ll need to push yourself to come out of your comfort zone, but the result is worth it. Be confident in your journey, ask questions, embrace challenges, and remember—this experience is setting the foundation for your future success. An apprenticeship is a unique chance to build your career whilst developing essential skills—so dive in and make the most of it!