Strategy & Operations Business Administrator Review
at Unilever
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Business Operations
London
Review Submitted: May 2023
Overall Rating
3.6 /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!
2/5
-
Overview of Role
3/5
-
Skills Development
4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
2/5
Everyday is always a different day. Sometimes I lead on projects or help with projects, and sometimes I work on the admin side of things. I also do a lot of background work, for example we are going to start sending out monthly emails to our function - I had to create the template for the email.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
2/5
I'd say it's decent. It's enjoyable at times, and sometimes it isn't. However, as of recent - I'd say I am now enjoying it a bit more given that the issues I was facing in the first few months finally got solved. But in all honesty, I did expect more...
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
Yes, I have become more confident in using software's such as Excel, PowerPoint, Word etc..
I would say my interpersonal skills have also developed a lot.
Organisation skills, this apprenticeship has helped me become more organised.
Given that I am only 16, I didn't know much about the business world. But now, I have learnt business etiquette.
I would say my interpersonal skills have also developed a lot.
Organisation skills, this apprenticeship has helped me become more organised.
Given that I am only 16, I didn't know much about the business world. But now, I have learnt business etiquette.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I believe my programme is well structured. The first Thursday of the month, we have 3 hour 30 min meetings; discussing our next assignment, learning some skills, asking questions etc. It is an informative meeting, and even after if we have questions or need help - there are great coaches willing to help. The programme is very straightforward, and relaxed. However, I would say - one downside is that the function I work in has nothing to do with my programme. I am in Communications & Corporate Affairs and we don't work with data, but my apprenticeship is now very data focused.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My employer has helped me an awful lot. Couldn't thank them enough. They are caring, and helpful. I feel comfortable in contacting my employer if I have any worries, concerns, need help, or just want a chat. They ensure that you are satisfied in the apprenticeship, and any problems you do face - they make sure to resolve.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider is very helpful. They ensure that we all understand what to do, they also make sure you feel comfortable to ask for help when needed. I felt a bit neglected at first, but once I spoke to them about it, they ensured that they make more time for me. Also, through progress reviews it makes you measure your progress. Overall, we receive a sufficient amount of support, and if we need more we can always ask and they will fulfil that request!
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel as if they do a great job. For example, on our monthly calls - we go through scenarios. These scenarios are helpful because it gives you an insight on how to handle situations and possible situations that may occur during our careers. We also get taught how to use softwares such as PowerBI etc.. How to make our spreadsheets look neater, and more!
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
They do here and there, but not too much. Most of the times they go for drinks. I do feel like they could do more. But as of recent, I have seen a lot more. For example, they did paintballing, an Eid celebration, golf, football I believe, easter egg hunting and a few more fun stuff .
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I personally have already, and they will be joining in September. I have seen many apprentices on my programme have a great time, experience loads of stuff & learn a lot! Even though my journey hasn't been the greatest, it would be selfish to not. I feel like it is all about luck. However, I would say, they aren't so friendly to the younger generation. Nobody is malicious or mean to your face, but you will feel very isolated. There are a few more negatives.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?
I would advise them to communicate. If you are feeling like something is wrong, do not hesitate to speak to your line manager, HR, your contractor etc..
Also, do not let your job take over your life. Make sure you have a good work - life balance. If your hours are 9-5, make sure you're logged off around 5. Give yourself sufficient breaks too.
I would also say set boundaries with colleagues in a respectful manner, for example if you are an apprentice and Fridays are your study days, make sure you don't let anyone book a meeting in with you on a Friday. If you cannot do something right away, communicate that and give THEM a deadline if one isn't given already. This basically is the same as my first point.
Don't go into the workplace looking for friends too, 9 times out of 10 you will end up disappointed. I feel very isolated at Unilever, but I do not let that throw me off the job. You are there for you. The workplace won't be the only place to make friends.
Also, do not let your job take over your life. Make sure you have a good work - life balance. If your hours are 9-5, make sure you're logged off around 5. Give yourself sufficient breaks too.
I would also say set boundaries with colleagues in a respectful manner, for example if you are an apprentice and Fridays are your study days, make sure you don't let anyone book a meeting in with you on a Friday. If you cannot do something right away, communicate that and give THEM a deadline if one isn't given already. This basically is the same as my first point.
Don't go into the workplace looking for friends too, 9 times out of 10 you will end up disappointed. I feel very isolated at Unilever, but I do not let that throw me off the job. You are there for you. The workplace won't be the only place to make friends.
