Finance Placement Review

As assistant commercial controller in PPD, I assist in managing the top part of the P&L (gross to net). I work closely between the finance team and commercial team, to ensure the relevant accruals are taken to reflect the commercial agreements with our customers, to ensure all commercial costs are spread out evenly throughout the year. Furthermore, I have my own projects on the side to help make processes run smoother within the division.

Excel is one skill that has become very useful this year, which is a skill I hope to take back to university to help in projects at university. Furthermore, working in a business environment has meant I have been able to improve my communication skills and team building skills. I have been given the opportunity to work in a team to learn the importance of teamwork and responsibility. My customer, commercial and financial awareness has also improved this year, I am now confident in the different aspects of running a business, through shadowing different team members.

From day one we are given a lot of responsibility, which seemed very daunting at first however it is the best way to really improve in our new roles. Personally I am now in charge of several key processes within the business, and the main point of contact for some commercial queries within the business. Throughout the year I have also had the opportunity to take on more work, to broaden my knowledge and awareness within the business.

L'Oreal have a strong feedback and development culture. Formal placement reviews are put in place at 3, 6 and 12 months, in which we fill in a form with our development goals, and ask colleagues in the business for feedback. My manager has been extremely helpful in supporting me to achieve these feedback goals. I never feel like I am asking a silly question and the colleagues I work with are always there to help. Other than this, there are also further informal opportunities for support.

L'Oreals culture and atmosphere is one of my favourite things about working for L'Oreal. There is an extremely friendly culture, and even though I spent half the year working from home, and started my placement in a pandemic I have always felt at home. I have always felt as a valued employee and L'Oreal has gone above and beyond to support us in the pandemic this year. These include extended lunch hours, so that we can go for a work at lunch if needed, and "Time for You" on a Friday afternoon, to give us an opportunity to focus on ourselves. I have also had the opportunity to join several committees, which has meant I have helped organise socials to help make things seem more "normal".

Despite starting to work at L'Oreal, I have had an extremely enjoyable year. It is a shame that I have only had the chance to go to the office regularly since April, as the past few months have really given me a small insight into the usual L'Oreal experience. I have really enjoyed having the discipline and structure of a job, and enjoyed having the responsibility of working in a team where ever we say or do has an impact on the business. I am looking forward to bringing back all the skills I have learnt this year to university.

Yes

Be yourself! That's the best thing about L'Oreal, they value everyone's differences. It's an extremely friendly and chatty environment, so if that sounds like you, you'll fit in well. Before your interview make sure you research the company thoroughly (names of senior leaders in the company, overview of the financial position, brands and recent campaigns they have run). Have a look at L'Oreals competencies and values, and see where you fit in and what competencies you would like to focus on and develop.