Commercial Analyst Review

This summer I have been part of a team within the DTS department that aims to fill the void of the exploration and testing of ideas part of finding solutions to business problems. I have created reports using excel to visualise feedback data they received over the past 18 months. I was then able to present my findings back to the team. I have also co-facilitated workshops and worked collaboratively with other members of my team to deliver project proposals.

My summer has taught me how to empowered myself and my colleagues to improve customer delivery. I have also witnessed a team experiencing organisational change at a departmental level. This taught me how to adapt and overcome the challenges that come when facing structural change within a business. As well as this, I have developed my communication and time-management skills. I also learnt how to structure more productive meetings in order to set and maintain perspective goals.

I was given a fair amount of responsibility during my time at Centrica. I prepared and carried out one of my teams (Accelerator Hub) 'drop-in' sessions for professional and personal development. I was able to choose a topic for that the discussion which was diversity in the workplace. This responsibility was a great way to demonstrate courage and initiative. I also was able to empower colleagues to ensure collaboration is personalised and trusted throughout their own teams

I received an enormous amount of support throughout my entire time at Centrica. Even before starting my role, I received regular updates (by phone or email) by the recruiting team. When I started, we were all assigned Grad Buddies to help us feel settled into our roles. My line-manager was incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout my placement particularly through weekly meetings and catch-ups. I did feel like the recruiting team, when I started my placement, seemed a bit intimidating and not as approachable as I had hoped.

The general culture and atmosphere at Centrica is very positive and relaxed. While the dress code is quite formal, it feels very comfortable. Everyone, all teams staff and facilities teams, are always very keen to help you and answer any question you may have (no matter how silly they may seem!!). I really could not have asked for a better culture. It has really exceeded all my expectations, particularly considering energy company's general stereotype.

I really enjoyed my placement at Centrica this summer. This summer has been so so great. Overall, all my worries I may have had were easily answered and adapted. Colleagues are always keen to help and make you feel comfortable as well as answer any questions you may have. I would improve the recruitments team friendliness however this is just a minor detail. Overall, it has been a fantastic experience and a summer I will never forget!

Yes

The best advice I would give to anyone applying to Centrica is to know about the energy market as best as you can. Build knowledge around Centrica's owned companies like Hive and British Gas too, this can really help in assessment centres. Also being as friendly and approachable as possible, including everyone's ideas and comments, is very important. Technical knowledge can be learnt, personality cannot. Just be yourself and have a keen interest in energy.