Business Associate Review

My day-to-day revolves around the project(s) I am currently leading or working with a team on, this can include tasks like drafting communications, creating surveys, building powerpoints, speaking with different colleagues for information, planning event logistics and brainstorming. I have a small handful of set responsibilities, including attendance monitoring and action taking for our regional calls, noting deal updates and being the first point of contact for the next intern.

I have mainly developed my existing skills, including time management, flexibility and communication (with a focus on credibility and seniority). I have also devled into some new skills which require more work, including social media marketing, brand design and event planning. Due to working from home, I have learned how to keep a healthy work life balance.

I was very responsible for recruiting and a handful of projects but elsewhere lacked, I understand this was mainly due to the pandemic. Usually, I would help plan executive events (regularly abroad). However, as these haven't gone ahead, my responsibilities were more ad-hoc limiting the responsibility. Furthermore, some projects I was involved in came to an abrupt end or tailed off which relinquished my involvement.

The placement team were wonderful (especially at the beginning) in offering us presentations, workshops and opportunities to support and guide our placement experience. I received less support from my direct team, however, and this was made more difficult by the virtual environment resulting in prolonged replies to questions, concerns and work. My advice would be to build a strong relationship with your direct manager with consistent communication.

Beautiful offices. Diverse and inclusive company. Some great charitable initiatives are run - these are usually team focused, but a placement wide one would have been great! I believe this is possible under normal circumstances in person. More social events and activities could have been organised, whilst some virtual events were arranged for the intern's benefit (virtual concerts, etc), these didn't encourage much interaction (as a wine tasting or escape room might).

I have enjoyed the experience and projects as much as possible, despite the pandemic. SAP possesses a great culture of fun and energy, best displayed in person. If I were to go back I would hope to join another team as my responsibilities and projects dried up nearing the end of my placement making it less enjoyable.

Yes

Good luck! The application process was a lot more enjoyable than other companies, the assessment centre especially as I was made to feel more comfortable. Those interviewing you regularly understand the position you are in which is comforting. I wish I understood my role more before applying as 'business associate' is vague, unfortunately due to confidentiality this can't be helped but it ranges! No day is exactly the same, which keeps it interesting.