Credit Risk Placement Student Review
at Cummins
Placement (10 Months+)
Finance
Daventry
Review Submitted: May 2025
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
5/5
-
Support and Guidance
5/5
-
Company Culture
5/5
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Overall Experience
5/5
-
Future Career Prospects
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis.
As a Credit Risk Placement Student within the Power Systems Business Segment at Cummins, my role involves supporting the credit management function by assessing financial risk, contributing to process improvement initiatives, and ensuring compliance with corporate and regulatory standards. I work closely with cross-functional teams to support the company’s financial health through proactive credit control and insightful reporting.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities:
Credit Assessments: Perform credit-worthiness reviews for new and existing customers by analyzing financial data and credit history to support informed decision-making and risk mitigation.
Reporting & Analysis: Prepare and update regular credit reports, forecasts, and performance metrics to track key indicators and provide insight to senior management.
Process Improvement: Assist in the scoping and delivery of process enhancement projects, often using Six Sigma methodology, to improve efficiency and control.
Compliance Monitoring: Ensure all credit-related activities comply with internal policies, SOX requirements, and industry standards.
Business Partnering: Collaborate with various departments including sales, finance, and customer service to support account management and resolve credit issues.
Working Capital Support: Participate in initiatives aimed at optimizing working capital and cash flow, aligning with corporate financial objectives.
Ad Hoc Tasks: Contribute to special projects and provide analysis or support as required by the credit team or wider business.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities:
Credit Assessments: Perform credit-worthiness reviews for new and existing customers by analyzing financial data and credit history to support informed decision-making and risk mitigation.
Reporting & Analysis: Prepare and update regular credit reports, forecasts, and performance metrics to track key indicators and provide insight to senior management.
Process Improvement: Assist in the scoping and delivery of process enhancement projects, often using Six Sigma methodology, to improve efficiency and control.
Compliance Monitoring: Ensure all credit-related activities comply with internal policies, SOX requirements, and industry standards.
Business Partnering: Collaborate with various departments including sales, finance, and customer service to support account management and resolve credit issues.
Working Capital Support: Participate in initiatives aimed at optimizing working capital and cash flow, aligning with corporate financial objectives.
Ad Hoc Tasks: Contribute to special projects and provide analysis or support as required by the credit team or wider business.
Were you given much responsibility during your placement / internship?
Yes, I was given a meaningful level of responsibility throughout my placement at Cummins, which allowed me to contribute directly to key business processes and develop my professional capabilities. From the outset, I was trusted to manage important tasks with real impact on the company’s credit risk operations.
Some of the responsibilities I held included:
Conducting independent credit assessments for new and existing customers, helping to inform decision-making and mitigate financial risk.
Preparing and presenting credit reports and analysis to internal stakeholders, contributing to regular business reviews and financial planning.
Supporting Six Sigma process improvement initiatives, where I had ownership of specific tasks and was encouraged to propose solutions to identified issues.
Ensuring data accuracy and compliance in credit-related documentation and reporting, in alignment with corporate policies and SOX regulations.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams and representing the credit function in meetings, which helped build my confidence in professional communication and stakeholder engagement.
This level of responsibility not only developed my technical and analytical skills but also helped me gain confidence in working independently and making informed decisions in a corporate environment.
Some of the responsibilities I held included:
Conducting independent credit assessments for new and existing customers, helping to inform decision-making and mitigate financial risk.
Preparing and presenting credit reports and analysis to internal stakeholders, contributing to regular business reviews and financial planning.
Supporting Six Sigma process improvement initiatives, where I had ownership of specific tasks and was encouraged to propose solutions to identified issues.
Ensuring data accuracy and compliance in credit-related documentation and reporting, in alignment with corporate policies and SOX regulations.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams and representing the credit function in meetings, which helped build my confidence in professional communication and stakeholder engagement.
This level of responsibility not only developed my technical and analytical skills but also helped me gain confidence in working independently and making informed decisions in a corporate environment.
Please rate how meaningful the work you were doing was
5/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills, or developed your existing skills?
During my time as a Credit Risk Placement Student at Cummins, I have significantly developed both technical and interpersonal skills, as well as gained exposure to real-world financial practices within a global business environment. Key skills include:
Financial Analysis: Enhanced my ability to interpret financial statements and credit reports, allowing me to assess customer risk profiles with greater accuracy and confidence.
Excel & Data Handling: Advanced my skills in Microsoft Excel, including the use of formulas, pivot tables, and data visualization tools to create efficient and insightful reports.
Process Improvement (Six Sigma): Gained hands-on experience with Six Sigma methodology, contributing to structured problem-solving and process optimization projects.
Communication & Stakeholder Management: Improved my written and verbal communication skills through regular interaction with internal stakeholders and business partners across departments.
Time Management & Prioritization: Learned to manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment, meeting tight deadlines and balancing long-term projects with daily responsibilities.
Understanding of Compliance & Governance: Developed a strong understanding of credit policy, SOX compliance, and risk control procedures within a regulated corporate environment.
Team Collaboration: Strengthened my ability to work collaboratively within a diverse and inclusive team, contributing to shared goals and continuous improvement efforts.
Financial Analysis: Enhanced my ability to interpret financial statements and credit reports, allowing me to assess customer risk profiles with greater accuracy and confidence.
Excel & Data Handling: Advanced my skills in Microsoft Excel, including the use of formulas, pivot tables, and data visualization tools to create efficient and insightful reports.
Process Improvement (Six Sigma): Gained hands-on experience with Six Sigma methodology, contributing to structured problem-solving and process optimization projects.
Communication & Stakeholder Management: Improved my written and verbal communication skills through regular interaction with internal stakeholders and business partners across departments.
Time Management & Prioritization: Learned to manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment, meeting tight deadlines and balancing long-term projects with daily responsibilities.
Understanding of Compliance & Governance: Developed a strong understanding of credit policy, SOX compliance, and risk control procedures within a regulated corporate environment.
Team Collaboration: Strengthened my ability to work collaboratively within a diverse and inclusive team, contributing to shared goals and continuous improvement efforts.
How would you rate the training provided during your experience?
5/5
How would you rate your development of industry-specific skills during the experience?
5/5
How would you rate your development of personal / soft skills during the experience?
5/5
Please rate how these skills have helped you in your career development
5/5
Support and Guidance
How much support and guidance did you receive during your placement / internship?
Throughout my placement at Cummins, I received a strong level of support and guidance, which played a key role in my personal and professional development. From day one, I was welcomed into a collaborative and inclusive team environment that encouraged continuous learning.
Key aspects of the support I received include:
Structured Onboarding: I was provided with a thorough induction that helped me quickly understand the company’s values, systems, and processes.
Mentorship: I had regular check-ins with my line manager and was assigned a mentor who offered valuable advice, feedback, and career development guidance.
Team Collaboration: My colleagues were approachable and always willing to answer questions, offer help, or share their experiences, which made learning on the job much easier.
Learning Resources: I had access to internal training materials, tools, and development programs that allowed me to build both technical and soft skills.
Performance Reviews: I received constructive feedback through regular one-to-one meetings, helping me identify strengths and areas for improvement.
The supportive culture at Cummins really empowered me to take ownership of my work while knowing that guidance was always available when needed
Key aspects of the support I received include:
Structured Onboarding: I was provided with a thorough induction that helped me quickly understand the company’s values, systems, and processes.
Mentorship: I had regular check-ins with my line manager and was assigned a mentor who offered valuable advice, feedback, and career development guidance.
Team Collaboration: My colleagues were approachable and always willing to answer questions, offer help, or share their experiences, which made learning on the job much easier.
Learning Resources: I had access to internal training materials, tools, and development programs that allowed me to build both technical and soft skills.
Performance Reviews: I received constructive feedback through regular one-to-one meetings, helping me identify strengths and areas for improvement.
The supportive culture at Cummins really empowered me to take ownership of my work while knowing that guidance was always available when needed
How would you rate the support and guidance from your line manager?
5/5
How would you rate the support and guidance from the wider team?
5/5
Company Culture
What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?
The company culture at Cummins is highly collaborative, inclusive, and supportive, which made my placement experience both enriching and enjoyable. From the outset, it was clear that Cummins places great importance on fostering a positive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered.
Key aspects of the culture I experienced include:
Inclusivity & Diversity: Cummins promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce, where different perspectives are not only welcomed but encouraged. I felt respected and part of a team that embraced varied backgrounds and ideas.
Collaboration & Teamwork: There was a strong sense of teamwork, with colleagues from different departments regularly working together towards shared goals. I appreciated the open-door policy, where it was easy to approach colleagues and leaders for advice, feedback, or collaboration.
Supportive Leadership: Leadership at Cummins is approachable and committed to supporting employee growth. I received consistent guidance and encouragement, with leaders taking an active interest in my professional development.
Focus on Innovation: The atmosphere was one of constant improvement and innovation, with a clear emphasis on driving business success through creative solutions and continuous learning. This encouraged me to think critically and proactively contribute ideas.
Work-Life Balance: The company values work-life balance, offering flexible working arrangements and promoting employee well-being. This balance helped foster a healthy and productive work environment.
Commitment to Sustainability: Cummins' commitment to sustainability and making a positive impact on communities was evident in both the company’s goals and day-to-day operations. This added a sense of purpose to my work.
Overall, the atmosphere at Cummins was motivating and dynamic, which allowed me to thrive and make meaningful contributions while learning from some of the industry’s best.
Key aspects of the culture I experienced include:
Inclusivity & Diversity: Cummins promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce, where different perspectives are not only welcomed but encouraged. I felt respected and part of a team that embraced varied backgrounds and ideas.
Collaboration & Teamwork: There was a strong sense of teamwork, with colleagues from different departments regularly working together towards shared goals. I appreciated the open-door policy, where it was easy to approach colleagues and leaders for advice, feedback, or collaboration.
Supportive Leadership: Leadership at Cummins is approachable and committed to supporting employee growth. I received consistent guidance and encouragement, with leaders taking an active interest in my professional development.
Focus on Innovation: The atmosphere was one of constant improvement and innovation, with a clear emphasis on driving business success through creative solutions and continuous learning. This encouraged me to think critically and proactively contribute ideas.
Work-Life Balance: The company values work-life balance, offering flexible working arrangements and promoting employee well-being. This balance helped foster a healthy and productive work environment.
Commitment to Sustainability: Cummins' commitment to sustainability and making a positive impact on communities was evident in both the company’s goals and day-to-day operations. This added a sense of purpose to my work.
Overall, the atmosphere at Cummins was motivating and dynamic, which allowed me to thrive and make meaningful contributions while learning from some of the industry’s best.
How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
5/5
How would you rate the social opportunities?
5/5
How would you rate the diversity initiatives?
5/5
How would you rate the charity, sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives?
5/5
Overall Experience
To what extent did you enjoy your placement / internship?
I thoroughly enjoyed my placement at Cummins and found it to be an incredibly rewarding experience. The combination of meaningful work, professional growth opportunities, and the supportive, collaborative environment made it a truly fulfilling role.
Some of the reasons I enjoyed my placement include:
Challenging and Engaging Work: The tasks I was assigned, such as credit assessments, process improvement projects, and financial reporting, allowed me to apply my academic knowledge while also learning new, practical skills. It kept me engaged and motivated throughout my time at Cummins.
Learning & Development: I appreciated the chance to expand my skillset in areas like financial analysis, Excel, and process optimization. The opportunity to work with experienced professionals and receive constructive feedback helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Team Environment: The team at Cummins was welcoming, inclusive, and always ready to collaborate. This made the work atmosphere enjoyable and fostered a sense of camaraderie.
Company Values: I also enjoyed working for a company with strong values, especially its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and diversity. Being part of an organization that genuinely strives to make a positive impact made the experience more meaningful.
Overall, I found my placement both enjoyable and enriching. It not only deepened my understanding of credit risk management but also gave me the confidence to contribute to a major global company.
Some of the reasons I enjoyed my placement include:
Challenging and Engaging Work: The tasks I was assigned, such as credit assessments, process improvement projects, and financial reporting, allowed me to apply my academic knowledge while also learning new, practical skills. It kept me engaged and motivated throughout my time at Cummins.
Learning & Development: I appreciated the chance to expand my skillset in areas like financial analysis, Excel, and process optimization. The opportunity to work with experienced professionals and receive constructive feedback helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Team Environment: The team at Cummins was welcoming, inclusive, and always ready to collaborate. This made the work atmosphere enjoyable and fostered a sense of camaraderie.
Company Values: I also enjoyed working for a company with strong values, especially its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and diversity. Being part of an organization that genuinely strives to make a positive impact made the experience more meaningful.
Overall, I found my placement both enjoyable and enriching. It not only deepened my understanding of credit risk management but also gave me the confidence to contribute to a major global company.
Please rate your level of enjoyment on your placement / internship
5/5
Please rate how your experience met your expectations
5/5
Future Career Prospects
Please rate the future employment prospects at Cummins
5/5
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Cummins to a friend?
Yes
What advice would you give to others applying to Cummins
If you’re considering applying for a position at Cummins, here are a few key pieces of advice to help you succeed in the process:
Embrace the Company Values: Cummins has a strong focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation. Show how your own values align with theirs and be ready to demonstrate how you can contribute to their mission of powering potential and making a positive impact on communities.
Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration Skills: Collaboration is central to Cummins’ culture, so be prepared to showcase your ability to work well in a team. Whether through examples of previous group projects or experiences working across different departments, highlight your teamwork and communication skills.
Be Ready to Learn: A big part of the experience at Cummins is growth and development. Emphasize your willingness and enthusiasm to learn new things, whether it's about financial analysis, risk management, or corporate processes. Being open to learning and adapting is key to thriving at Cummins.
Focus on Problem-Solving: Cummins values people who can bring creative solutions to challenges. Be prepared to discuss times when you’ve identified problems, come up with solutions, and contributed to improvements. Showing your problem-solving mindset will make you stand out.
Prepare for a Structured but Flexible Environment: While Cummins is structured in terms of processes and expectations, there is a lot of flexibility to explore your passions and interests. Show that you can balance both structure and autonomy in your work.
Research the Company: Take time to learn about Cummins’ operations, global reach, and current business priorities. Having a strong understanding of the company will help you stand out in interviews and show that you are genuinely interested in joining the team.
Be Yourself: Above all, Cummins values authenticity. Don’t try to fit into a mold. Be yourself, share your genuine experiences, and show your enthusiasm for joining an organization that empowers individuals to grow and make an impact
Embrace the Company Values: Cummins has a strong focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation. Show how your own values align with theirs and be ready to demonstrate how you can contribute to their mission of powering potential and making a positive impact on communities.
Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration Skills: Collaboration is central to Cummins’ culture, so be prepared to showcase your ability to work well in a team. Whether through examples of previous group projects or experiences working across different departments, highlight your teamwork and communication skills.
Be Ready to Learn: A big part of the experience at Cummins is growth and development. Emphasize your willingness and enthusiasm to learn new things, whether it's about financial analysis, risk management, or corporate processes. Being open to learning and adapting is key to thriving at Cummins.
Focus on Problem-Solving: Cummins values people who can bring creative solutions to challenges. Be prepared to discuss times when you’ve identified problems, come up with solutions, and contributed to improvements. Showing your problem-solving mindset will make you stand out.
Prepare for a Structured but Flexible Environment: While Cummins is structured in terms of processes and expectations, there is a lot of flexibility to explore your passions and interests. Show that you can balance both structure and autonomy in your work.
Research the Company: Take time to learn about Cummins’ operations, global reach, and current business priorities. Having a strong understanding of the company will help you stand out in interviews and show that you are genuinely interested in joining the team.
Be Yourself: Above all, Cummins values authenticity. Don’t try to fit into a mold. Be yourself, share your genuine experiences, and show your enthusiasm for joining an organization that empowers individuals to grow and make an impact
