Project Analyst Review

Project Analyst, supporting the IBM team working on a key client account for IBM. Involved in supporting the key commercial processes across the account (e.g. Billing cycle, forecasting cycle, contracting etc.). Worked closely with the commercial manager and Commercial lead on all processes and also engaged regularly with the client. Also provide support to the PMO team, ensuring the necessary governance is in place across the account. Tasks involved the running of daily reports which were distributed to both client and IBM stakeholders.

My placement specifically allowed me to develop skills in a unique environment, whereby I had a client facing role. This is unique for an intern and allowed me to have increased exposure to client facing work. Not only did I develop important skills needed to work in consultancy, but I was also able to engage in other activities internally with IBM. This allowed to come out with a variety of new skills that were not all weighted towards my day to day role.

During my internship, I felt like there was no stigma in term of me being an intern. Therefore I found that fellow IBMers and even the client were happy to place their trust in me to perform a task. Throughout my year, I have been involved in work that is essential for the success of IBMs relationship with the client. I have also played a key part in growing IBMs business with the client, through working on the bid of a major project extension.

IBM internships are well known for the level of support you are offered throughout your internship. Firstly, you have two stand-alone managers (a task manager and a foundation manager). Your task managers will be in charge of your day to day activities and also will have an interest in your career goals/development ambitions. The foundation manager is the solely there for general well-being and career support throughout your placement. Also more generally, I have found that all IBMers will be willing to support you if you reach out to them.

Despite IBM being a huge company, this did not translate into a toxic culture whereby you felt as if you were not a part of something special. You are truly made to feel like a valuable part of the organisation despite your intern status and full time IBMers are always happy and willing to reach out to you for any guidance. The intern community is very inclusive and is nice to have some many other interns in your position.

I’m very glad that I chose IBM for my placement year. Having not been entirely sure of my career aspirations at the beginning of the year; IBM has been great at allowing me to assess future career options. I have always felt like a valued part of my team and the environment in which I have worked in has been great. It has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally and the system they have for interns is one of the best.

Yes

IBM internships can be very competitive. Therefore in order to stand out I would say it is vital to show the drive and passion you have to work for IBM. Make sure you do as much research into IBM as possible and ensure this passion is evident in your application. Research into the emerging technologies that IBM is working with (e.g. blockchain, AI etc.) and also do some research into some real life case studies of IBM clients.