Yasar is 26 years old and has been part of the BMW Group for eight years. After completing his apprenticeship in a technical field, he decided to take on a new professional perspective and move into administrative purchasing. Today, he draws on his practical experience while expanding his knowledge through a part‑time degree programme. In this interview and video, he shares the steps that have shaped his journey, the people who have supported him along the way, and what he hopes to achieve and experience together with the BMW Group.
05.03.2026
Apprenticeship, a change of direction and a degree: the many ways a career at the BMW Group can unfold.
In conversation with Yasar.
What motivated you to start your apprenticeship at BMW back then
and what has kept you with us ever since?
“I chose to start my apprenticeship at the BMW Group because I had always been fascinated by the products. Even before applying, I was a big fan of the brand and its vehicles. On top of that, my sister – who still works at BMW today – always spoke very positively about her experiences and about BMW as an employer. That encouraged me to apply after finishing school, and in the end I was accepted for the apprenticeship. Looking back, I would make the same decision again without hesitation.”
One of my personal highlights was receiving the call offering me the apprenticeship. I remember it quite well: I was 17, right in the middle of my A‑levels, when the phone rang with the news. I was so happy that I literally jumped around my room.
How were you supported when you moved from production to purchasing?
“When I moved into administrative purchasing, I received excellent support from my colleagues. Many of them had originally come from technical roles themselves, so they understood very well which topics felt unfamiliar to me at the beginning. They were always helpful, took the time to explain things and showed a great deal of understanding for the fact that the technical and commercial areas can differ quite significantly. This openness and support made it much easier for me to settle into the new department.”
Which skills from your apprenticeship do you still benefit from in your day‑to‑day work?
“What I still draw on most from my apprenticeship is the experience of working in large teams. Even back then, we solved many tasks together, often through discussions to find the best possible outcome. That way of working is still incredibly valuable to me today in administrative purchasing. With so many interfaces involved, collaboration is a key part of my everyday work, and the experience I gained during my apprenticeship gave me a solid foundation. It meant I was well prepared for the requirements of my new role right from the start.”
I don’t know whether it’s because I’ve been with BMW for so long – but I honestly don’t find any car more beautiful than ours. And just as important to me is the feeling that BMW is like one big family. As someone who is very family‑oriented, that means a great deal to me.
Are there aspects of your previous role that you sometimes miss?
“If there's anything I miss, it's especially the colleagues with whom I worked closely for five to six years. The atmosphere at the plant is really special, and spending time together creates a certain bond. I always think back fondly on this community.”
If I ever want to tell my friends something that makes an impression, it’s simply describing the work I do. It does feel pretty special when we’re out together and I can say: See that M4 over there? The sunroof, the Skyroof, that’s something I source.
What challenges have you overcome so far at the BMW Group
and what insights have you gained from them?
“The transition from the technical to the commercial sector was one of the biggest challenges for me. I had to learn many new administrative tasks and systems – a big step that I am proud of today. At BMW, you never stand still: you always have the opportunity to learn new things, take on challenges and pursue your own goals. That's exactly what I appreciate so much, because I can continue to develop at any time or even try out completely new paths.”
Were there any role models or mentors in your career
who inspired you or whom you looked up to?
“I’ve found most of my role models within my own family. Both of my sisters and my brother work at the BMW Group, and I’ve often turned to them for advice – sometimes simply to talk things through. I’m very proud of what my sisters have achieved at BMW, and their journeys continue to inspire me. That’s something I’d like to build on myself. At the same time, I meet many people across the company from whom I can learn both professionally and personally.”
I’d love to explore many more areas within the BMW Group – whether that’s Aftersales, Development or something completely different. I’m still young and eager to broaden my horizons step by step. My goal is to look back at the end of my career and be able to say: I’ve seen everything I wanted to see, and achieved everything I wanted to achieve. There’s still a lot ahead of me.
Apprenticeship at the BMW Group.
Could you also imagine starting your career at the BMW Group with vocational training? Then find out more about the various apprenticeships here.
Opportunities in Purchasing.
Do you already have a degree and can imagine starting your career in purchasing at the BMW Group? Discover the career opportunities in purchasing here.