Marketing and Business Insights Review

I feel extremely grateful to have completed my placement at PRUK. One of the attributes that I believe separates them from other organisations is their commitment to creating a convivial environment. This ensures each employee is welcoming and adds to your placement year. Combine this with an obviously interesting industry and world renowned brands and I couldn't think of a better placement year! Not only did I enjoy my Insights work I also got the opportunity to work closely on marketing campaigns for Havana Club and Kahlua which allowed me to develop both a broader perspective of the organisation and only added to my enjoyment of the year!

I was given great responsibility throughout my placement which aided various individuals, teams and business functions. With each I was always given feedback and praise which demonstrated how valued my work was. I was often encouraged to give my insight in various meetings and never made to feel inferior to any other employee.

Throughout my placement I had two line managers who were both incredibly supportive. If I had any doubts regarding my work, role or general well-being at PRUK they took the time to listen and aid me in any way they could. Although I felt able to approach them at any time, I also had weekly meetings with each to discuss any concerns or projects. Throughout my placement they were keen to give me feedback, from praise to developmental areas in order to ensure I progressed as much as possible.

As my placement progressed and I was given the opportunity to work on both insights and brand teams my workload increased and I was busy everyday! Some evening work was required but this was just an opportunity to attend events and marketing activations. Although towards the end of my placement I had a high workload, the work was enjoyable and allowed me to stretch myself.

As mentioned above I was given great responsibility. The reports I compiled were utilised company wide and whilst presenting to customers. I was also the key contact for a research agency so was responsible for maintaining an efficient business relationship. Furthermore, I had great involvement with marketing activations for various brands. This included operating social media channels and event management.

PRUK encourages placement students to utilise their time with the company to their best abilities and develop considerably. They operate a DNA training portal which allows you access to numerous training materials and courses. These range from practical opportunities such as software and presentation skills to unique experiences such as Bar School, a chance to gain insight into the industry and Pernod Ricard's brands! These opportunities allowed me to develop both my personal and technical attributes. I have a higher confidence in my ability to conduct myself in a professional environment and am sure this will aid me throughout the rest of my degree and in future graduate opportunities.

PRUK is a very convivial company so the office was always friendly and enjoyable. They have a 'hot desk' policy, where employees move around the office each day allowing contact with various functions. There were also many internal launches of new products or campaigns which gave employees the opportunity to socialise in a relaxed manner.

As soon as I had accepted my role at PRUK I was given a welcome pack with information regarding the organisation, their brands and my role. I also received emails from both my line manager and previous placement student offering their congratulations and offering their help if I had any queries, This made me feel much more relaxed upon commencing my placement. I was given a two week handover period with the previous placement student to increase my knowledge as soon as possible. Due to reorganisation in the business the scope of my insights role significantly shrunk and there was a short period where I was unsure what my role became. However, they soon adapted my role to incorporate a greater level of brand marketing. This is a permanent change for all future placement students so I am sure they will not experience any role changes.

As mentioned in my previous answers PRUK were keen to aid my development in any way possible. This included my handover and software training to improve my performance in my role. However it also included courses such a 'Presenting with Passion' and 'How to be a Productivity Ninja' intended to aid me in further roles. I was regarded as a valued member of the organisation and was presented with as many opportunities as permanent employees.

Graduates can enter as a Account Development Executive (ADE) which usually leads to progression to further roles in 1-2 years. There are also opportunities to become ambassadors for brands such as Chivas and Jameson.

During my placement year there were three other students in various departments. However, they are keen to expand the Bright Futures scheme and have since added further placement roles. Due to the industry there are various opportunities to socialise with both placement students and the wider organisation both at and outside of work. I was able to attend team trips to places such as Liverpool and Plymouth to immerse ourself in our brands and consumers.

As expected in London living and socialising costs can be quite high, however working at PRUK allowed you access to discounts in various bars and restaurants. All work events and trips would be covered by the company.

During my placement PRUK relocated to Chiswick Park. There were a few bars in the business park which employees often visited for after work drinks. It was also a short tube journey to more central locations which were great for nights out.

PRUK emphasised the importance of achieving a good work/life balance. They hoped to encourage this by running weekly clubs such as yoga, pilates, running and swimming. Chiswick park also hosted events such as fireworks night, Halloween activities, a Christmas market etc.