Nadia Aljibouri

Nadia Aljibouri
JOB Buyer - purchasing department
EMPLOYER Foster Wheeler Energy Limited
DEGREE BSc economics (2001)
UNIVERSITY Royal Holloway, University of London

Finding a job

After university I worked in Milan for an engineering and construction contractor. I wanted a job where I could work in a project environment, use the commercial knowledge I gained in my degree and learn a language. My work experience abroad helped me through my interviews with my current employer after which I was offered a position on its UK graduate training scheme.

My role

I am involved in purchasing everything that we need for a particular project. For example, to build a refinery the engineering department develops a specification of all equipment and bulk materials required. I then carry out commercial evaluations to establish which supplier’s offering is the most attractive, in terms of price, delivery, quality and technical specification. I then make recommendations to our client. I also have to be constantly aware of the market volatility to anticipate market demands.

Training

I had a week of induction talks that included an overview of the company and further study options available. Training is provided throughout the year to meet individual needs – for example I attended courses to help develop my negotiation skills. I am also working towards my Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) qualification.

The highs

My job offers variety as I work with so many different people and interface with suppliers. For each project I work with a different team buying new commodities.

The lows

To learn you often have to start by doing less interesting tasks but this is necessary to progress to more exciting work.