Marketing Operations Undergraduate Review

The main responsibility in this role is the review and approval of financial services assets from Volkswagen Group Brands. We use developed advertising guidelines to ensure all assets are clear, fair and not misleading and aim to ensure all financial promotions are accessible and inclusive to all customers. This part of the role means communicating with a variety of departments within VWFS as well as external marketing agencies and VWG brand marketing teams. I also work across the department to help members in the team with raising purchase orders, manage marketing stock levels and various other projects.

Yes, I have learnt lots about corporate life and feel my confidence has greatly increased thanks to this placement. I have picked up lots of transferrable skills that will be useful when I go back to university, like self management and prioritisation of tasks. I always have become a subject matter expert in FCA regulations and have worked closely with our compliance department which has made me realise I have an interest in compliance and legal, this is not something I would have know without doing this role.

Yes, I feel I was given a lot of autonomy and responsibility during my placement and this increased gradually over the year to push me out of my comfort zone and really helped to develop me professionally and personally. I did not feel like I was doing pointless tasks or general admin for someone else, I was given projects and responsibility that genuinely impacted the business. Particularly during quarter launches when we launch our new finance campaigns.

There is a really supportive culture at VWFS which meant even when I felt my workload was high I was always able to have a conversation with my manager who would support me and help me to prioritise task that were more important. I was also able to reach out to my team and they would support in tasks when I was unsure on how to approach them. I was also given thorough training and a comprehensive guide when starting.

It is a very friendly company culture and I feel it has set the bar really high for my future employment! I felt really comfortable talking to and working with other people across the business no matter their level, everyone is very approachable and there doesn't feel like a hierarchy. VWFS really encourages your personal development by providing lots of Learning and Development opportunities, it is not just about getting work based results but your overall wellbeing and progression.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement and would really recommend to others who are interested in marketing. I have made lots of friends as the current cohort is 48 undergraduates and I have heard lots of positive feedback about their years as well. There were times it was difficult due to a lack of headcount in the team but even when it was difficult I still felt very supported and motivated to work to a high standard

Yes

I would say to do your research and really get your head around the difference between Volkswagen Group and Volkswagen Financial Services, as lots of people get these mixed up! It is also worth getting an understanding of our 5 core brands and the 3 luxury brands. I would also say ensure you have the right skills and attitude for the company, internally the culture focuses very heavily on integrity and doing the right thing, this is a very important quality for all new starters.