What's your job about?
DHL Supply Chain is a global leader in logistics and supply chain solutions and we place great importance on delivering quality service to our customers. As a graduate, I play a critical role in maintaining and improving the operations in our warehouses. This can include training staff members, developing and refining existing processes and daily/monthly reporting of our team's performance. To do this, I work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure we are delivering on our renowned service.
What's your background?
Like many other people, when I finished high school I didn’t know what I wanted to do as a long-term career. So I started a Bachelor of Commerce with the idea of trying a few different subjects to find my perfect fit. Living in southern Sydney, the University of Wollongong was a natural choice. I really enjoyed my time at uni and majored in Management and Marketing. My management subjects gave me the knowledge needed to succeed in my current job and marketing allowed me to develop my presenting and group work skills.
While studying, I did a few years of retail work before eventually joining a labour-hire company and was placed with DHL Supply Chain as a warehouse storeman. My main responsibilities were picking and packing orders for our customers. This was the perfect job for me as it fits in well with my university schedule and was a casual job while I studied. I started to look up to my managers and realised that the supply chain was an area I could create a career in. I focussed on developing my skills and experience in the industry and when the graduate program was advertised, I applied!
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Absolutely! Having diversity in backgrounds and skillsets is essential at DHL as different people can provide different perspectives on situations. During my time with the company, I’ve met a variety of people from all walks of life who are excellent at what they do. However, I think some characteristics that would be important are problem-solving skills, having good attention to detail and an excellent work ethic.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
One of the best things about the DHL graduate program is the required work is meaningful and value-adding to the company. I truly feel like I make a difference every day through the tasks I complete. As a graduate, I’m also partnered with a senior member of the business to guide me through the initial stages of my career. Learning from someone who has been in the industry for 20+ years is an incredible opportunity.
What are the limitations of your job?
DHL has a variety of locations spread throughout Sydney and Australia. The main limitation is that a car and driver’s license is essential. I am often travelling between sites every day for meetings, and public transport may not be available at a convenience. Also, you need to have a willingness to go into the warehouse and get your hands dirty doing some physical work when required to help out the operation or to assist with your learning. Don’t expect to sit in a comfortable office all day.
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