Communications Lead of the bp Account Review

As the bp account communications lead I have been responsible for managing the internal communications on the bp account. Our account team has around 1200 members and it is important that I am able to cascade important information in a timely manner. I have been responsible for the beginning to end creation and publication of global monthly newsletters, continual and regular updating of the account microsite, sharing account success stories across internal and external forums, drafting announcements, and regular organisation and management of events. In addition to this I also receive regular ad hoc requests from across the account, including globally. In addition, I have also been responsible for setting up and running regular meetings for the account at global level and also at senior leadership team level, which has required a passion for interacting with people, and doing so in an articulate and efficient manner.

During my time at IBM I have considerably developed many of my existing skills, as well as learning plethora of new skills in addition. I have been able to learn great digital design and communication skills via using several different design progams in order to effectively advertise/market initiatives and events, which I am involved with. I have also developed my IT proficiencies via the frequent use of Microsoft Office programs, notably Excel. My networking skills have also been enhanced due to the global nature of my role, which requires regular connections with global teams.

During my placement, I was given plenty of responsibility within my role for a range of varying tasks. I was tasked with many event management roles, in which I was solely responsible for the organisation of events for the entire bp account, made up of over 1200 practitioners. I would also often extend events beyond our account to wider IBM, which again increased the level of responsibility regarding these global-scale events and initiatives. I was also given sole responsibility of the IBM@bp Global microsite, which acts as a hub for all integral information for the bp account (such as account structure, client information, training resources and our newsletter).

I received plenty of support during my time at IBM. Firstly, I had regular meetings with my task manager (3 times per week) in which we would discuss day-to-day tasks, my progress and upcoming tasks, which was highly useful for maintaining cohension in my work progress as I would be aligned with the intended direction of our account lead. In these catch-ups I would also receive general advice and career coaching. Secondly I also had great support from my foundation manager, with fortnightly meetings and regular communication via our Slack messaging platform.

The IBM culture was brilliant due to the inclusive and welcoming nature of all work practices, highlighting how IBM action their promises regarding commitment to D&I and employee welfare. This culture is truely noticeable upon joining, and has remained throughout my time at IBM. From my experience, there is equal opportunity across IBM for career progression, which is contributed to by regular and mandatory learnings regarding D&I and inclusivity. Moreover, a clear focus on a healthy work-life balance is evident at IBM, with regular short breaks recommended to maintain motivation and focus.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my placement at IBM. From a work perspective, I have been involved in countless pieces of highly valuable work, such as working on important client projects and creating initiatives for colleagues to further their career progression and enhance their network. I have also been treated as an equal, and have never felt as if because I am an intern I am any less valuable than anyone else. From a social perspective, IBM has also been incredible! I have made lasting friendships and attended many social events such as sporting events/competitions, boat parties and food/drink get togethers.

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A piece of advice I would give to others applying to IBM is if you are interested in working in an accepting, inclusive, collaborative and fun work environment... then IBM is the place for you! IBM is an incredible company to work for, which will open doors for your future career faster than you could ever believe with the networking opportunities available here along with the invaluable experiences you are certain to be involved with should you gain a role here.