Commercial Associate

Monica Moreta

Economics

Placement (10 Months+)

SAP

Describe your role and what it entails.

Helping close multi-million-pound deals acting as a trusted associate engaging in deal structuring, contract negotiations and costumer calls. I manage the closure of transactions collaborating with cross-functional teams for compliance with SAP guidelines and legal requirements. Additionally, I contribute to the auditing processes, collaborating with external auditors to ensure the timely completion and accuracy of financial audits. Actively engaged with stakeholders, providing all relevant information to support the auditing process.

What have been your highlights?

My biggest accomplishment was winning the prestigious Business Impact Award in 2023, recognizing the substantial contributions I made to the organization during my placement year. This award is a testament to the incredible support and opportunities provided by SAP, as well as the dedication and hard work of my colleagues. It motivates me to continue giving my best and contributing to our collective success.

What have been your challenges?

In my role as a Commercial Associate, I faced the challenge of handling multiple workstreams and meeting tight deadlines. Effective organization was crucial. To overcome these challenges, I implemented a strategic approach by prioritizing tasks based on urgency and business impact. Thanks to the support and teamwork from the company, I successfully assisted Sales Executives and managed all transactions in this high-pressure environment.

What have you learnt from your experience in the role?

My experience in this role has highlighted the critical importance of commercial awareness, particularly in understanding the UK and Ireland markets. Collaborating with regional sales teams to implement structured and linear practices underscored the value of teamwork and effective communication. I've learned to adapt to the dynamic business environment, emphasizing the need to stay proactive and agile when addressing challenges. It has also honed my skills in time management, navigating complex negotiation, and problem-solving under pressure. Lastly, my involvement in auditing processes has enhanced my attention to detail and collaborative abilities. Overall, my experience has enriched me with a multifaceted skill set that includes strategic thinking, teamwork, and adaptability to ever-evolving business challenges.

What advice would you give to a student following in your footsteps?

My advice to a student aspiring to follow a similar path would be to embrace continuous learning and adaptability. The business world is ever-changing, so be ready to acquire new skills and keep up with industry trends. Good communication and teamwork are universally essential, so work on developing these skills. Seek out internships or part-time jobs in your field to gain hands-on experience and build a professional network. A great tip for interviews is to research the company and your role thoroughly, the more you know about their latest projects the better! Lastly, don't be discouraged by setbacks and challenges; they are a natural part of the journey and often provide some of the best learning opportunities. Embrace them and use them as stepping stones for your career growth.