Digital Systems & ERP Research Intern

About The Business: Fosbery Studio is a specialist manufacturing business based in Folkestone, producing high‑quality bespoke lighting products for a premium clientele. We pride ourselves on precision craftsmanship, excellent customer service, and the ability to deliver tailored solutions at scale. We combine design expertise with modern digital tools to manage orders, production workflows, pricing, and customer fulfilment. As a growing business, we are continually refining how our internal systems support production efficiency and customer experience.

Overview: You will focus on a major digital transformation research project, with opportunities to contribute to secondary supporting tasks. Primary Project – ERP & Systems Integration Research

Desirable Skills: Strong analytical and research skills.

Job Description:

What you’ll be doing:
You will focus on a major digital transformation research project, with opportunities to contribute to secondary supporting tasks.
Primary Project – ERP & Systems Integration Research
You will:

• Research suitable ERP/MRP or production‑management systems that can integrate with the business website and replace/remodel current use of QuickBooks.
• Evaluate each system’s functionality, including:
  • Order management
  • Production scheduling
  • Inventory/BOM handling
  • API compatibility with existing systems
  • Reporting capabilities
• Liaise with the studio team and (where relevant) external web developers.
• Test shortlisted systems using demo environments/trials.
• Produce a structured report comparing pricing, features, integration options, and implementation requirements.
• Recommend the most suitable system for Fosbery Studio, with justification.

Secondary Project – BOM & Pricing Database (if time remains)

You will:

• Explore linking Bills of Materials (BOMs), supplier price lists and part numbers into a centralised database.
• Investigate automation opportunities to produce accurate costings and reduce manual spreadsheet handling.
• Prototype or outline a lightweight system for long‑term use.

What you’ll gain:

• Hands‑on exposure to real-world digital transformation inside a growing manufacturing business.
• Experience analysing and selecting ERP/MRP systems based on practical requirements.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, order workflows, scheduling, BOMs, and costing.
• Experience working with APIs, integrations and system testing.
• Professional experience producing technical documentation, evaluation reports, and recommendations for leadership.
• Insight into how modern manufacturers use digital tools to support growth and efficiency.

About you:
Essential Skills

• Strong analytical and research skills.
• Works well within a small team
• Strong understanding of scaling and building systems with flexibility in mind
• Interest in business systems, digital transformation or manufacturing technology.
• Comfortable evaluating software and comparing technical features.
• Ability to communicate findings clearly in written and verbal form.
• Self‑directed, organised and able to work independently.
  Desirable / Optional Skills
• Studies related to Computer Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Systems, Data Science or similar.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems, API integrations, or production workflow tools.
• Understanding of BOMs, product structures, or costing concepts.
• Familiarity with QuickBooks or other financial platforms.
• Knowledge of databases or data modelling (e.g., SQL, Airtable, Excel-based automation).