Sustainability Placement Student - Governance and TRANSFORM Review

TRANSFORM: Onboarded new Project Leads, led the Project Lead Community and ​
resource hub, developed standard operating procedures, supported outsourcing, managed travel & expenses and in-kind contribution calculations.​
Unilever Sustainability Advisory Council: Assisted in member research, prepared offer letters, compiled member biographies, wrote briefings and managed logistics for meetings. ​
Sustainability Catalyst Community: Created and posted content on sustainability initiatives, reinvigorated the community, and engaged with wider Unilever members.​
Volunteering at local schools: Participated in Dove Day and Domestos Day, teaching lessons on body confidence and healthy toilet habits.
Exeter Outreach Development Team: Connected with students at careers fairs, showcasing Unilever’s career opportunities.

Yes in the second half of my placement I had a lot more ownership of tasks and responsibility. I jointly led projects which gave me an insight into project management techniques and ways of working in a team.

I have developed several skills including: research, excel skills, project management, organisational awareness, sustainability acumen, public speaking, adaptability, advocacy, change management, resilience, communications and critical thinking to name just a few!

The company was going through lots of internal changes and restructuring which affected my experience and employees focus/responsibility. It definitely shifted mindsets and moral within the office. However, my line managers have been understanding and supportive during this period. I feel they could have supported me further due to my individual learning needs, but on a general basis they are very helpful and encouraging.

The company culture was great everyone's very chatty and keen to get to know you. I particularly enjoyed my coffee/tea breaks and all the networking opportunities. I worked in very friendly teams and enjoyed our team away days and drinks afterwork. Its nice to socialise and get to know one another outside of the office environment.

I enjoyed it to a moderate extent. I feel my experience would have been different if I didn't join amongst a massive restructure and CEO change. Internally there was some much change and uncertainty, which was very difficult and impacted my role and team. However, my second 6 months has been much more enjoyable and I will miss the people I've worked with. I've made some great connections and its been invaluable for my personal development and skill growth.

No