Marketing Placement

Carmel

Business

Placement (10 Months+)

Johnson & Johnson

What was the interview process like?

The interview process was quite comprehensive with a variety of stages. The assessment center consisted of multiple elements including a CBI with competency based questions.

How much responsibility do you have?

I have a lot of responsibility in my role, as I am accountable for a variety of my own projects. We have weekly team status report meetings to feedback on how our projects are progressing however beyond that, I am accountable for ensuing my milestones are met.

What advice would you give to students applying for your role?

I would advise applicants to take their time and do their research around the company. It really shows during the application process if you understand the companies objectives and values and show how you embrace those yourself. It is also valuable in determining if the company culture is suited to you, which is just as important when deciding which placements to apply for.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

I really enjoy the variety of projects that I have the opportunity to work on, ensuring that each day is different. One day I can be working on a patient support programme and the next on a promotional app. The large range of projects has allowed me to work collaboratively with so many people from across the business in a variety of functions.

What has been your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge has been learning how to prioritise projects with multiple stakeholders and tight timelines. This year has involved a completely new level of organisation to ensure that all projects are delivered.

Describe your biggest achievement?

My biggest achievement has definitely been running an ‘Agency day’ alongside one other student. We decided to create a showcase event which involved over 10 companies, 6 of which were social enterprises pitching to an unmet need in the company. The event generated company wide recognition, as well as from our managing director who introduced the event. We were also put forward by J&J for a ‘Contribution to social procurement’ award and were invited to attend an event at the House of Lords.

How has this experience exceeded your expectations?

The level of responsibility exceeded all my expectations as I led and executed on a lot of projects, including the entire 2017 advertising strategy. I also couldn’t believe how much my team valued my ideas and input into all aspects of the marketing strategy.

What is the office atmosphere like?

We are very fortunate to have a large modern office space, where you are encouraged to work wherever you feel comfortable with a costa coffee onsite, as well as lots of outdoor courtyard space.

What activities are there outside of work?

We are lucky to have a large group of students and graduates in the office who all become close throughout the year and socialise together. Having an onsite gym means that a lot of evenings are spent doing the evening classes together. We have also recently undertaken the three peaks challenge together which involved training hikes and brought us a lot closer together as a group.

How promising are the graduate prospects?

Although there is no guarantee of returning as a graduate, there is a lot of encouragement for placement students to re-apply. Throughout your placement year you are also encouraged to develop yourself and take on projects which will prepare you for the graduate role.