Pointnext Strategy and Planning Intern Review

My day-to-day role consists of creating reports to support forecasting activities for the sales teams. On a weekly basis, I created Forecast Files to send to the different teams to provide an accurate forecast for the quarter. I then consolidate these to present to management and to provide details for the monthly flash submission. I also create actuals reports that show all deals that have been booked and an accurate view of the performance of the business unit in the quarter so far.

I have built my confidence massively over the year as forecast calls often require me to defend my analysis and clearly explain the files I create and present. As the whole internship has been virtual, it has also taken confidence to reach out and build relationships with my peers and colleagues. The Early Careers Teams have also held Intern Development Sessions to develop our knowledge and understanding of the business. We have developed our presentation, communication and analytical skills.

The internship has given me huge responsibility as a result of being in charge of creating forecast files for 7 different teams to show the view of their performance and be used in submitting the business unit flash calls. There are many opportunities to be involved in different projects outside of the day-to-day role, for example leading the intern recruitment and onboarding process for the Strategy and Planning team. I successfully hosted the Assessment Centre and conducted telephone interviews before supporting the selection process for successful applicants.

I have been aligned many mentors to support me during the internship, through different programmes that I have been involved in. The Early Careers team have been very clear when directing you to resources and people that can help. The full company has always been friendly and eager to help, I have built a strong relationship with many colleagues that have helped with different projects. I have team meetings twice a week, and line manager 1-1s bi-weekly to monitor my workload and offer support when struggling.

The company culture is very supportive, encouraging employee wellbeing to be a priority; providing resources such as Headspace and promoting Wellness Fridays. It has been difficult to get to know the general atmosphere as my placement has taken place virtually, working from home the entire year. This has been difficult to connect and build a strong intern community.

I have enjoyed my placement, there has been many opportunities to develop and have different responsibilities. There have been times when I have been stressed, juggling lots of commitments and uni work. The virtual working environment has been a massive factor that has impacted the internship, with lots of pressure to be available 24/7 and back to back calls meaning long days. It has been more challenging to reach out and get involved but has increased my confidence in doing so.

Yes

Have an idea of areas that you want to develop and goals you want to achieve. Make sure you communicate these so that you can be guided in the right direction to achieve them Challenge yourself by trying new things or speaking to new people to gain a wider understanding of the business and different areas involved. Familiarise yourself with the goals and aims for the company as a whole in preparation for the interview process.