Skip to main content

How BTEC Business At NSCG Led Abz Ayinla To a Role In The NHS

IMG 9098

After completing Level 3 BTEC Business at NSCG, Abz launched his career with an apprenticeship in Procurement and Supplies at One Lancashire and South Cumbria, supporting services for North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust. 

 

He has now gone on to secure a full-time role as a Divisional Buyer within the organisation, join us as Abz shares how studying at NSCG opened the door to his career.

The support and guidance I received from all the lecturers throughout my time at NSCG was incredible, their encouragement and dedication played a significant role in my development. 

Abz Ayinla, Level 3 BTEC Business

Can you tell us about your apprenticeship?

I recently completed my Procurement and Supplies apprenticeship and was proud to become an ambassador for the North West Skills Development Network (NWSDN), supporting the recruitment of new apprentices.

Having experienced the journey myself, I wanted to give back by helping newly employed apprentices settle into their roles within the NHS. This led me to take part in the buddy system, which I thoroughly enjoyed, it allowed me to be a consistent point of contact and support for others starting their careers.

In my current role within the medicine team, I focused on delivering cost savings that directly benefitted patient care. 

I was honoured to be nominated for an award in the Lancashire and South Cumbria region, which was a meaningful recognition of the impact of my work.

What first inspired you to apply for an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship felt like the right path as gaining hands-on experience was really important to me when I considered my future career aspirations. I knew I wanted a practical learning environment and the opportunity to grow and develop while working. 

How did your time at NSCG prepare you for your next steps?

The support and guidance I received from all the lecturers throughout my time at NSCG was incredible, their encouragement and dedication played a significant role in my development. Dawn, Sarah and Mike from the business team are true stars.

What was the application process for your apprenticeship like?

The interview process itself was structured in three stages. It began with a virtual interview where I discussed my qualifications and aspirations. This was followed by an assessment day, where I was presented with customer-focused scenarios to test my problem-solving and communication skills. The final stage was a formal interview, during which I had the opportunity to highlight my skills, experience and explain the value I could bring to the role.

Can you tell us more about your day to day responsibilities?

My role differed on a day-to-day basis as I worked in different departments as part of my learning phase for the apprenticeship scheme. I’ve worked in the purchasing team where I was responsible for ordering and ensuring stock levels are maintained and that the hospital is not running low on inventory. Expediting and checking for delivery is also one of the roles of the purchasing department. Expediting is the process in procurement where the progress of an order is monitored from being received with the supplier to when the goods or services are physically delivered. I do strategic buying as well which includes producing reports, creating contracts, chasing maintenance and invoices, supplier management and ensuring collaborative stakeholder relationships.

Congratulations on securing a permanent role with your employer. What are you most looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to the new learning phase. Cost reductions are always welcome as we need to be getting the best value for money and ensure that public funds are spent and managed well. I’m also looking forward to managing my areas in the medicine departments, I’ll be looking after the A&E, medical wards, nursing supplies group and product delivery group.

What has been your proudest moment so far?

I was proud to be nominated for Apprentice of the Year at the Lancashire and South Cumbria Apprenticeship Awards. As a member of the Association of Apprentices, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with others and share valuable skills and experiences.

One of my proudest achievements was successfully completing my Cost Improvement Programme (CIP) qualifications and implementing a project that saved £9,000, allowing the funds to be reinvested into other areas of the Trust. I’m also proud of the extra tasks that I’ve taken on, like becoming an Ambassador for the North West Skills Development Programme, supporting the recruitment process by taking part in apprentice interviews and taking on a mentoring role as a Buddy. 

I also recently co-hosted the annual student conference for the North West Skills Development Network (NWSDN) of over 70 delegates which was really fun as I got to practice my public speaking, and I was able to network with the Director of Finance for the North West region. My project presentation also won me a medal.

What are your future plans and ultimate career goals?

I’m looking to continue in healthcare procurement, with a focus on strategic leadership and innovation. I want to contribute to more efficient, value-driven procurement practices that enhance patient care and support the long-term sustainability of NHS services. Ultimately, my career goal is to take on a senior leadership role where I can influence policy, drive innovation and ensure the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective healthcare solutions across the NHS.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My family is my biggest inspiration. I feel very fortunate as I get a lot of support from my Mom and she ensures that I do the right thing at the right time. My family’s resilience, support and values have shaped my work ethic and commitment to personal and professional growth.

What part of college life do you enjoy the most?

I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Andy Griffin Football Academy (AGFA). Football has always been a valuable outlet for me, providing both a physical and mental escape. I took every opportunity to train and engage in the sport, which also allowed me to build meaningful friendships and create lasting memories. JJ, who also coached us, is a top man as well!

What book, show or film is your favourite at the minute?

My favourite at the minute is the F1 movie, I really enjoyed it.