Business Placement - Future Leader Review

My placement was within the baggage management team, which oversees the whole baggage operation for BA at Heathrow. My main role was baggage data analytics, though the role itself was incredibly varied, fast-paced and dynamic. I could be assisting helping sports teams check in, helping with disruption, driving round the airport to attend a task, dealing with the trade union or attending the many shadowing opportunities and events set up as part of the placement.

Through my projects, I developed my project management skills, overseeing transformational initiatives within the department. I worked on creating clear and concise presentations, as I presented my work to my managers and senior management, including members of the management committee and CEO. I developed my technical skills in excel and PowerBI amongst other programmes. I improved my stakeholder management skills through my projects too, and learned to adapt my communication style to a range of audiences, from front line colleagues to senior management.

Yes, a huge amount. My main project gave me complete oversight of a new system and I worked with the computer science department to oversee developments of it. This also made me answerable to senior management as to the implementation strategy, involving the changing of peoples rosters and responsibilities to capitalise on the new capabilities I developed. I attended senior management meetings to present my work, and my presentation was then delivered to the COO and CEO to show them the potential of the developments I introduced.

I received all the support, guidance and encouragement I could have asked for and more. We were shown by our line managers what our placement areas required and our placement managers were incredibly supportive, arranging shadowing, talks and events throughout the year to expose us to as much of the company as possible.

Everyone I encountered, from new-entrant front-line colleagues all the way to the management committee and CEO, was extremely welcoming, encouraging and wanted to make the placement the best start in aviation possible. Everyone was more than willing to share their experiences and allow us to learn about what they do. There is a big culture that every colleague matters and the general atmosphere is extremely respectful, encouraging and motivational.

I loved my placement! From the range of projects and initiatives I worked on to the incredible shadowing opportunities on offer, it was such an amazing, diverse and varied placement full of so many unique experiences. I would thoroughly recommend it.

Yes

You should have a genuine passion and enthusiasm for aviation and British Airways. Research the company beforehand and learn about its operation, values and current affairs. Be prepared to take every and any opportunity you are offered as there is a lot of movement within the company. It is an amazing place to work, so best of luck!