Assistant, Product Technical & Development Review

I work as an assistant to the Product Quality & Service Support (PQ&SS) team, situated in the Aftersales division of TGB. To provide context, PQ&SS works to cover all areas of dealer network performance on repairs, understanding issues with current models, working to resolve these issues. My key role responsibilities are to carry out all our departmental reporting (both weekly and monthly), assist in big projects, run projects independently and maintain bi-annual financial invoicing.

Throughout my placement year, I have been able to transfer many skills learnt at University into the workplace. The main skills I have developed are interpersonal skills, time management, prioritisation, and organisation. During my placement, I developed Power BI skills (a Microsoft software), such as in DAX coding and data visualisation, which is highly sought after by many employers. I have also been able to build upon my Excel skills, as well as data handling.

I was given a lot of autonomy over the work I completed over the year, and made a meaningful impact with the work I did. For example, I completed a project on improving our department's reporting to Toyota GB's parent company, which assisted to created more resolutions to quality issues, and thus has an impact on the quality and safety of vehicles. I was involved in many projects, both within my department and other departments.

Had weekly 1-2-1's with my line manager to feedback on projects that I was completing, as well as how well I felt my personal development was going. These 1-2-1's gave the opportunity to discuss what other work you are interested in getting involved in. Other managers in the department continuously supported me throughout the year, and were all very approachable if I ever needed assistance and would give advice based on previous experience.

The work culture at Toyota is driven strongly by ‘The Toyota Way’, which is comprised by two pillars: ‘continuous improvement (Kaizen)’ and ‘respect for people’. ‘Respect for people’ places heavy emphasis on the inclusion of people and creating a positive work culture for everyone, this includes diversity and volunteering programs all year round to raise awareness for minorities within the workplace. ‘Continuous improvement’ emphasises problem-solving and innovation throughout the business, reinforced through annual reviews and company-wide innovation days.

All the work I was given throughout the year felt like it had a meaningful impact, and has put me in good stance going back to University and also post-University looking for Graduate roles. There is a strong welcoming culture at Toyota, with the feeling that you can approach anyone in the office to ask for help. The placement experience was better than I could have anticipated and I hope to return on their Graduate scheme.

Yes

The application process involved the following: 1. Apply online with CV 2. Psychometric testing 3. One way video interview 4. Assessment centre, which involves a group task, individual task, and two interviews. Tips for assessment centre: make sure you have done extensive research on the company values, and also show passion for the company and why you want to work for Toyota (and be yourself!). I wanted to join Toyota as it is a well-known brand is part of The UK's Top 100 Large Companies to work for.