Global Technology Services Cross Industry Business Operations Support Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement at IBM. I worked in a dynamic role demanding high levels of involvement on projects with direct impact on the business' performance. The placement allowed me to experience what it is like to work for a huge international company and provided the opportunity for me to develop both personally and professionally.

My role involved supporting the business operations manager of one of the largest business unit in IBM UK. I was responsible for a number of processes that directly impacted the business and therefore was relied on by the senior management team. I provided cover for my manager whilst she was away for a month and was respected and engaged with by all.

I engaged with my manager on a daily basis. I was constantly communicating with her and the immediate management team providing support and guidance on any issues I had.

The work load would fluctuate depending on the time of the month. The start and end of the months would be quite allowing time to complete administrative tasks as the middle two weeks were extremely hectic.

I had a huge amount of responsibility during my placement, driving tasks and answering questions on behalf of my manager. When she went away for a month I covered her in all tasks proving the trust and responsibility given to me during my placement.

I cannot recommend a placement year enough to anyone. The scheme provides you with both technical, professional experience but also soft skills that are vital for any role you choose to apply to in the future. This placement has also given practical experiences in which to apply the theory I have learnt throughout my degree and identify areas I find interesting and wish to pursue in the future.

There was a good sized intern population of people doing similar courses and wanting the best experience from the placement, both socially and professionally.

There are a number of courses and activities run internally by the company and by Foundation. These focused on presentation skills, women in industry and future careers. The company also supported me in taking external courses that developed my personal skills such as the Gradbridge Award.

Whilst there is currently a hiring freeze, I feel once a job is secured with IBM there are endless possibilities within the company with a huge number of employees having long and successful careers there.

I lived at home during my placement so cannot comment on living prices.

There is a fairly good social scene for the size of the area and Birmingham is very close for a bigger occasion.

There is lots to do in the surrounding area and depends purely on the people you work with as to who will get involved!