Sukhdev became a NOVUS student at Aston University. The learning nurtured his ambition and he loved all the support from new friends and mentors.

Meet Sukhdev Rathore, Business and Supply Chain Management, Aston University, Graduate of 2022

“Logistics is very demanding; however, the environment in which you operate in is highly rewarding, highlighting the importance of teamwork and adaptability.

The logistics field is important to many businesses as without the planning or distribution of goods, there would be countless shortages and failures of on-time delivery.

As logistics is so complex, there are many opportunities in the sector, all of which are different yet working towards a similar goal. Taking this into account, most people with a career in logistics will tell you it’s fast paced and rarely boring, with a variety of work that will keep you engaged in your job – there will never be a dull moment!

A reliable logistics service can increase a business’ reputation, which can help grow sales and profits for companies that deal with production, shipment etc. The importance of logistics is growing significantly and I believe it’s a great sector to be a part of.

Having little understanding of what logistics was all about before starting university, I knew becoming a NOVUS student would give me the correct exposure needed to understand what logistics is all about.

The main reason why I became a NOVUS student was because of all the opportunities that it offered; it provides you with a chance to network with so many different companies and speak to leaders in the sector. Also, I was given the opportunity to have a mentor. For me, that was important, as my mentor was able to guide me into the direction I wanted, which motivated me and allowed me to discover paths that I wouldn’t have without his leadership.

During my first year at university, I was keen to get some experience in the logistics profession, so, during the summer I completed a seven-week internship as a Transport Planner at Wincanton. I learnt how to plan trucks for delivery, negotiate prices with hauliers to complete jobs for the company and keep track of orders. I also took sole ownership over one of the contracts that was held with Wincanton.

I now have a wider understanding of how companies set up multiple deliveries and how time management in this sector is extremely important to prevent any fines or delays, which could potentially impact other drivers and affects customer satisfaction. I was also able to apply what I learnt during my first year to the challenges that I faced during my internship. Currently, I am completing my third-year placement year at Arla Foods, where I am working in Outbound and carrying out a day job in the Claims Team.

So far, this year has been eye-opening, not only for personal development but because of the key learning points I am able to take away with me already. I have been involved in a lot of process optimisation sessions, as well as looking at turnaround time on our deliveries. One of the main reasons why I chose to do my placement at Arla Foods is because of the year structure; it allows you to complete your first nine months in your designated areas and then, for your final three months, work within a department of your own choice. For me, personally, I believe that this is not an opportunity that many companies offer.

I have also been given a lot of responsibility, which makes me feel that the work I complete provides some value to the company.

I have been given a great line manager who is always there to provide support and direction whenever I need it, as well as a buddy who always pushes me to challenge myself. Having these guys with me has made my journey easier as they have opened my mind to new ideas and possibilities, which has expanded my knowledge of the sector.

I believe the skill set that I have to offer makes me suited for a career in logistics.

As the profession is so fast moving, each step requires successful completion and will require you to remain calm despite the amount of pressure that is often applied. I am also fast thinking, which is extremely important in logistics, as logistics requires you to make split second decisions.

With my strong problem-solving skills, I can look at the bigger picture and see how I can strive to achieve the best of any task that I have been given.

I have learnt how effective delegation of roles and responsibilities in a team is crucial to ensure you reach the end goal, and how important group dynamics are to developing my leadership skills.

My advice for any potential NOVUS student would be to network as much as you can and always take any opportunity that comes to you.

At the beginning, it may seem daunting because it is a new experience, but it will allow you to not only grow as a person, but to get your name out in the sector. The more you show that you are willing to learn from others and gain knowledge, the more you will stand out compared to other students, as it shows you are driven and motivated.

Finally, NOVUS allowed me to make friends with the same aspirations as me.

Being surrounded by young professionals who all want to achieve something big is truly inspiring and I am so glad I could be a part of that!

I wish you nothing but the best in all the decisions you make!”

First published on the NOVUS website and republished with permission.