Supply Chain Summer Intern Review

I really enjoyed learning about all of the different divisions and opportunities to work within L'Oreal. During my time I received a good mix of training and work to enable me to develop.

Once I had proved myself I was able to ask for more responsibilities. This work had a real business impact and included the daily stock checks and investigating the cost to serve L'Oreal customers.

For most of my projects I have been left to my own devices to work out what the requirements are. For some projects this was good for others I would have preferred some more structured guidance.

Once I had proven myself with the projects that I was initially set; I was able to ask for more responsibility. This enabled me to experience different parts of the Supply Chain with L'Oreal and network with a wider range of individuals.

I was handed a lot of responsibility especially with the 'cost to serve' project which investigated areas for cost saving within L'Oreal.

I developed my Microsoft Excel skills throughout this placement which will be really useful when I return to my Mechanical Engineering studies.

The office had a young and fun atmosphere where everyone was very helpful. This was really good for me as learnt a lot about Microsoft Excel from the team.

From a HR perspective the internship was well planned; we regularly received training to develop both technical and general competencies. I was a little disappointed that everything seemed to be planned very last minute, I was only informed a few days before my placement began where I would be based even though I had accepted the contract 6 months before I was due to start.

L'Oreal provided access to various different e-learning platforms. This was really good as I could learn how to do things on Microsoft Excel as well as learn about the different divisions within L'Oreal in my own time. This helped me plan my development better as I could schedule myself in for training when necessary. The company also signed me up to attend various product trainings; this enabled me to get a better understanding of the beauty industry and recognise the challenges it faces.

The Management Trainee scheme (graduate scheme) is highly regarded within the company, throughout my placement I have been shown the various success stories of graduates quickly being promoted to senior positions. This makes the potential of a graduate scheme very appealing to me.

There have been plenty of opportunities to socialise with other interns whilst on my placement. L'Oreal has a 'coffee culture' which means that everyone is continually growing their network and socialising.

I lived at home and commuted so my costs were fairly low, other interns who lived in central London found it expensive.

Located in London the surrounding night life is fantastic

There have been some opportunities to volunteer for various charities during my placement.