Data Science Degree Apprentice Review
at Unilever
Degree Apprenticeship
Supply Chain Management
Kingston upon Thames
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.5 /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!
4/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
In my apprenticeship, I collaborate with the planning team and data scientists to maintain and improve our automated forecasting system. I have been involved in developing Power BI reports for forecast insights and conducting Exploratory Data Analysis for new markets, ensuring our datasets and models are accurate and effective for demand planning.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I really enjoy my programme. The learnings from university modules directly link with the work I am doing at Unilever, allowing me to gain practical experience as I progress in my course. Additionally, as data science is a vast field, I have been able to gain exposure to various parts of it throughout the course.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have significantly improved my technical skills, including Python programming and Excel, by working on various projects. Additionally, I have enhanced my soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, by providing training sessions and collaborating closely with colleagues on interesting and challenging projects.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My programme is well organised. I feel I have been receiving the necessary support throughout, and I really enjoy the connection between university teachings and my work.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive as much support from my employer as required. Whenever there are any issues regarding university or work, I can always reach out to my line manager or the future careers team and get the support I require.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I receive substantial support from my training provider when working towards my qualifications. We have a catch-up every three months with my university work-base-learning tutor (WBLT) and my line manager (LM). During these sessions, we discuss my progress and address any issues, which I find very useful. Additionally, we can schedule one-on-one meetings with our module lecturers for any concerns regarding assignments.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The training from university introduces certain topics from data science that I then implement at a later stage at work. This foundational knowledge is key to progressing quicker and with more certainty. I find the link between the qualification and my role to be great and very helpful.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
There are many opportunities to get involved in various activities. We can join future careers development teams, each with a separate focus point, such as Outreach, Health and Wellbeing. Additionally, we can participate in groups within our office for sports or other activities.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Unilever is a great place to work, especially when starting out your career. The supportive nature of everyone you work with makes it an enjoyable place to develop your skills and build relationships.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?
When applying for apprenticeships, you don't need to have all the skills from the start. The purpose of the apprenticeship is to teach you these skills as you progress. Therefore, during the application stage, emphasise your willingness to learn and develop rather than the skills you currently have.
