European Network Planning Assistant Undergraduate Review

During my placement at Honda, I have supported the strategic development of the dealer network across European markets. My responsibilities include analysing market performance data, managing Dealer Service & Sale Agreements and supporting the Honda Approved Used Car Programme. I’ve also presented in dealer development reviews and collaborated with the Digital Connectivity team on testing the My Honda+ App, gaining insight into connected vehicle technologies. Additionally, I contributed to the recruitment of my successor, participating in interviews and CV reviews. This experience has strengthened my analytical, communication, and project coordination skills in a dynamic automotive environment.

I was given significant responsibility throughout my placement. I was trusted to manage key tasks independently, including preparing detailed market performance reports, supporting dealer contract rollouts, and administering the Honda Approved Used Car Programme. I also handled Dealer Service Agreements and helped coordinate important departmental team meetings. These responsibilities enabled me to strengthen my analytical and organisational abilities, while gaining practical experience in managing complex projects and contributing to the effective operation of a large, international business.

I have both developed existing skills and gained a number of new ones. My analytical skills have significantly improved through regular analysis of market performance data and the preparation of detailed reports to support strategic decision-making within the Franchise Planning Department. I’ve also enhanced my communication and presentation skills by contributing to and presenting during Dealer Development Branch Reviews. Working with Honda’s Dealer Contract Management System has given me valuable experience in data management and attention to detail, particularly in handling Dealer Service Agreements. I’ve also developed strong organisational and project coordination skills through supporting the rollout of new dealer contracts and helping manage the Honda Approved Used Car Programme. In addition, I’ve gained entirely new skills in cross-departmental collaboration and digital technology through my involvement with the Digital Connectivity team, where I supported the testing of the My Honda+ App. These experiences have helped me grow both professionally and personally, giving me a broader understanding of business operations within a global automotive company.

During my placement, I received a strong level of support and guidance from my team and manager. While I was encouraged to work independently on key tasks, I always had access to experienced colleagues who provided valuable advice and feedback when needed. Regular check-ins and team meetings helped ensure I stayed aligned with project goals and allowed me to ask questions or seek clarification. This balanced approach enabled me to develop confidence in my work while benefiting from mentorship, which greatly enhanced my learning experience throughout the placement.

The company culture at Honda was professional, collaborative and supportive. The team fostered an open and inclusive environment where ideas and questions were welcomed, encouraging continuous learning and development. There was a strong focus on teamwork and clear communication, which made it easy to collaborate across departments. Despite being a large global company, the atmosphere felt approachable and friendly, with colleagues willing to offer guidance and share their expertise. Overall, the culture promoted both individual growth and collective success, making it a positive and motivating place to work.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement at Honda. The variety of tasks and responsibilities allowed me to apply and develop my skills in a real-world setting, which was both challenging and rewarding. I appreciated the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that had a direct impact on the business, such as supporting dealer network strategy and the Approved Used Car Programme. Additionally, the supportive team environment and exposure to different departments, like Digital Connectivity, made the experience engaging and enjoyable. Overall, the placement significantly enhanced my understanding of the automotive industry and confirmed my interest in pursuing a career in this field.

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