Sales Operations Executive Review

My year with Volkswagen Group thoroughly enjoyable to an extremely worthwhile experience. I had the opportunity to play a vital role within my team to aid the success of the business, as well as having plenty of opportunity for personal development.

My colleagues made me feel like part of the team from day one. I had plenty of responsibility, completing tasks vital to the success of the business and this was very much appreciated and celebrated within my team

My Line Manager was so supportive and really believed in me, this helped to grow my confidence hugely. The relationship I formed with her really enhanced my placement year experience.

There were periods of busy and periods of relative quite, like I'm sure there are in all roles. However, there was always the opportunity to get involved in additional projects if I found myself in a quite period and my manager tried to manage my workload to ensure that I was not overwhelmed by the volume at any point

I was given plenty of responsibility throughout my placement year in a variety of different tasks. However, if I required support it would always be given, you were never just left alone if struggling with anything

I was able to make the most of multiple personal development course, from excel/powerpoint through to emotional intelligence. You are encouraged to go on as many as you think would benefit you and your career.

The office atmosphere is always cheerful and supportive. It is a completely open plan office, meaning no individual offices. This allows me to go and speak to anybody else, including the managing director without feeling nervous or uncomfortable about knocking on their office door. Something I think should be replicated in all workplaces.

My work placement was very well organised. We had everything we needed by 9.30 on our first day and were continued to be supported throughout our year. We were also able to help with the next years assessment centres to make them feel comfortable while on their interview days. If I ever had a question, it would be answered by HR within 24 hours.

The company fulling invested in my personal development and training. This included a trip to Germany to gain knowledge on the new vehicles coming out, as well as personal development courses ranging from Excel/Powerpoint to Emotional Intelligence. I was able to sign up for any courses I believed would develop me professionally throughout my year.

Future employment prospects are limited but the 6 spaces on the graduate scheme are highly sought after. It is a rotational scheme throughout the business and therefore something very valuable if somebody wants to experience a variety of roles. The scheme is open to all graduates, including those who have completed the placement scheme. I will definitely be applying when the time comes.

Yes, there are around 40 undergraduates and 6 graduates each year. You also tend to live with other undergraduates, meaning it almost feels like living at uni, except going to work each day. Evenings and weekends are often spent together, and being so close to London, we had many day trips at the weekends.

Living and socialising isn't cheap, but it equally isn't London prices. It is possible to enjoy your year socially on the wages we receive from work

The nightlife in Milton Keynes can only be described as a bit strange. As it is not a university town, there are fewer nightclubs/bars that I was expecting. However, due to there being so many placement students in the company, as well as many other big businesses in Milton Keynes, the nightlife at weekends was more that good enough

I didn't get involved in anything work organised, but it offers sports teams