Strategy and Economics Industrial Placement Review

My role focused on supporting a wide range of project engagements across commercial due diligence, market entry strategy, investment advisory, and economic development. On a day-to-day basis, I worked with quantitative datasets in Excel to analyse data and market trends, created and co-created deliverables such as executive-ready client decks, reports, and investment materials, and gathered information through industry research, news, and stakeholder discussions. I was also actively involved in presenting work both internally to colleagues and project leads, as well as externally to clients and C-suite executives.

Yes, I was given significant responsibility throughout my placement. This included owning key sections of client deliverables, managing core data inputs and analytical models, and regularly presenting our findings to internal leads, client teams, and C-suite executives.

Yes, I developed both my technical capabilities and key interpersonal skills throughout the placement. On the hard skills side, I significantly advanced my proficiency in Excel, alongside developing structured, client-ready presentations using PowerPoint and Think-cell. More importantly, I massively built on my soft skills, particularly around adapting my presenting style and approach.

I received a lot of support and guidance throughout my placement, particularly from my line manager and individual project managers. Over the year, I built a comfortable network across the team where people were always approachable, willing to provide constructive feedback, and supportive of my development as I took on more responsibility.

The company culture was incredibly good, friendly, and welcoming from day one. It felt very supportive, with people across the firm always willing to offer guidance and help you grow. At the same time, the project teams I worked in were very driven and high-performing, creating an environment where everyone was motivated to deliver high-quality work for clients.

I enjoyed it immensely. I had such a positive experience and got so much out of the work and the team that I even extended my contract slightly beyond my original placement end date.

Yes