Customer Development Industrial Placement- Category Mangagement Review

I work in Category Management and I work on a variety of tasks both internally and externally. My role involves using software to analyse data for retailers and the team and creating PowerPoints to tell a clear and concise story. My role requires me to be impartial and unbiased hence why the data is so important. I also make recommendations to a variety of retailers to help them grow the category.

I have learnt many new skills such as how to use Nielsen, Kantar, Space planning software and Brandview. I have developed my public speaking skills through joining networks and presenting to over 200 people and I have learnt how to interact with buyers from an impartial category perspective. I have also honed in on my ability to use Excel.

I was given so much more responsibility than I thought I would get. From the start, my line manager asked me to get involved with producing presentations for important internal meetings. Within my first month, I had presented to a retailer with my line manager only there for support. I was encouraged to network with people and I was able to join a network and begin my own project that will continue when I leave.

I received as much support as I needed . I had weekly meetings with my line manager as well as multiple Ad-Hoc calls and I felt comfortable to ask her questions whenever. I also had bi-weekly calls with another category manager on the team and monthly calls with the Category Anchor but I could message when I needed too. The wider team were also extremely supportive and I was encouraged to ask questions- Everyone was kind!

I really enjoyed the company culture and atmosphere! During my time, there have been multiple team events such as go-karting and a bake-off with dinner and drinks. There have been team lunches and a company-wide summer event. In terms of Diversity initiatives, there are networks and I am part of the team that ensures inclusion. I have visited several schools to talk about opportunities. Unilever aims to make sustainable living commonplace. Great work/life balance!

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement. The work was interesting and fas- paced and I had the opportunity to lead my own projects and be independent. I had a great team who were all supportive and friendly and there were several perks such as ice-cream on site, the staff shop, gym and salon. I think the culture is fantastic and my first experience in the corporate world has exceeded my expectations: I'd love to return!

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The interview process is thorough and does take a while but it is worth is- be honest and be yourself! For the assessment centre, preparation is key: do your research and practice! You will get a lot of support but for day one, talk to your line manager and ask about expectations; Think ahead about what you want to get out of the experience! You may need to re-locate so make sure this is feasible.