Commercial Intern Review

- Engaged in weekly account management of both internal and external stakeholders, representing the brand to our direct buyers. Within the organization, collaborated cross-functionally with our marketing and merchandising teams to maximise the brand's presence in-store. Externally, liaised with buyers to uphold legalities concerning internal promotions and pricing. Additionally, worked with external merchandisers to facilitate optimal productivity and implementation of our stands in stores. - Responsible for forecasting and reporting internal EPOS data to the business, closely monitoring promotional periods and new product launches. - Conducted in-depth analysis of the competitor market to identify market trends, opportunities, and challenges. Produced comprehensive competitor reports based on in-store performance and industry trends.

- Improved my judgment skills- making decisions that suited the situation, whether that be providing alternative solutions in meetings for an effective output or making the most productive call in a crisis situation. - Improved my presentation skills and honed my confidence when dealing with individuals in senior positions. -Improved my Excel skills dramatically, by the end of the year I had built several reports that provided useful insight to my team. -Helped me find methods of prioritising tasks, enabling the production of high-quality results in a timely manner.

You are entrusted with significant responsibility, and while it may initially feel overwhelming, rest assured that it will be given to you gradually, and your team will offer support. As you become familiar with your weekly and daily tasks, you will have the opportunity to take on individual projects. Experiencing this level of trust and being valued as an employee who adds significant value to the team has been truly rewarding. Your role plays a vital part in the team's success, and your contributions are highly valued.

We participated in weekly calls with the next-gen committee, receiving valuable practical guidance on how to prosper at L'Oreal. I found reassurance in knowing that I could turn to HR for support if needed. On a day-to-day basis, my team and work channel fostered a family dynamic, always being supportive and willing to offer guidance for both personal and work-related inquiries. I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional support and mentorship I received from my line manager at L'Oreal. She continuously provided me with food for thought, which allowed me to think critically and taught me commercial literacy beyond my intern role. I felt believed in the entire journey, due to the open environment she and my team created. Her constructive criticism was continuous and empowered me to identify areas of improvement and reach my full potential.

The company culture was super dynamic and networking was a huge part (both in social and professional settings). There were plenty of events hosted, that allowed you to learn experiences from other colleagues and those in the wider business. The senior team also treated you with respect, I have never felt less than a fellow employee. Everyone has their own working styles, yet the key theme that ran through L'Oreal was the friendly, empathic work-force full of people that cared for each other.

I am super grateful for the journey I've had at L’Oreal and have grown as an individual significantly. I was able to embrace challenges beyond my role and gain a hunger for industry and commercial knowledge. I’ve been able to partake in causes that mean a lot to me, such as participating in pride parades, several charity events, and attending D&I talks. It felt almost too easy making some lifelong friendships within the intern cohort and had made the social aspect of my time at L'Oreal truly unforgettable. The collaborative atmosphere within all the teams I've had the pleasure to work with has been exceptional and I'd love to experience it again.

Yes

Go for it! It will be the best year for you to really understand your potential and give you a fantastic taster of the corporate world. The responsibility you will be given is no joke, so enter with a positive mindset that you will grow, as no one expects you to know everything. Also, keep pushing yourself and lean into your team or line manager for support, they'd rather you understand your role and produce quality results.