I had the incredible opportunity to do my placement at L'Oréal UK&I, located in White City, London. I worked as a Business Development Intern in the Consumer Products Division, specifically focusing on the Skincare, Suncare, and Men’s categories, working with brands such as L'Oréal Paris, Garnier, L'Oréal Men Expert, Thayers, and Ambre Solaire.

My responsibilities encompassed three strategic areas focused on team enablement:

Data Insights

• Developed Share Notes: Synthesized data from various sources to deliver actionable insights on Online & Offline (O & O) category performance, supported strategic decisions and widely shared in divisional and zone meetings.
• Leading O & O Insights: Delivered monthly updates on the retail landscape and category growth pillars, becoming a popular collaborative effort within the division.
• Initiated Weekly Newsletters: Clear & insightful analyses on trends, retailer and brand updates. Shared with Brand, Commercial and external Customer Teams.
• Revised Category Dashboard: Managed monthly updates to the dashboards, resolved issues to improve accuracy, refined the format, and enhanced automation for better data insights.

Project Support

During my placement, I played a crucial role in several key projects that advanced my skills in analytics, storytelling, and project management. I led the insight creation for category updates presented in quarterly divisional Category Max meetings to major stakeholders. I contributed to the development of category growth pillars and go-to-market strategies for the UK and Ireland. Additionally, I supported the formulation of a three-year growth plan for the division and assisted in designing format strategies across brands within the Consumer Products Division.

Data Training & Expertise

I provided data systems training to new starters and conducted refresher sessions for the team as needed. Additionally, I served as the go-to expert for various data systems, including Nielsen and Unify.

What was it like transitioning from full-time student to full-time staff member in the world of work?

In my experience, transitioning from a full-time student to a full-time staff member was both exciting and challenging. As a student, my focus was primarily on learning theories and concepts, but stepping into a full-time role required applying that knowledge in real-world situations. The shift involved adapting to a more structured schedule, managing multiple responsibilities, and navigating office dynamics.

In the world of work, the stakes are higher, and the pace is often faster. I had to quickly develop practical skills, such as effective communication, time management, and problem-solving, which went beyond the classroom. Entering the corporate world also offered the chance to collaborate with diverse teams, gain practical experience, and witness the direct impact of my contributions.

Overall, while the shift demanded adjustment and growth, it provided invaluable experiences and a deeper understanding of the corporate world and the beauty industry. It highlighted the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, preparing me for future professional opportunities.

What highlights do you have from your placement? What was your favourite thing about your placement? What was one thing you weren’t expecting?

Highlights from My Placement

The standout highlight of my placement was leading of pivotal project: the development of a “Skincare Benefits Classification.” This initiative was not only complex but also highly impactful, as it involved aligning Global and UK market segmentation and linking category sell-out data to specific skincare benefits. The success of this project was evident through the benefits it brought to various stakeholders, making a tangible impact.

Favourite Aspect: Making a tangible impact

What I enjoyed most about my placement was the opportunity to lead projects with significant, tangible outcomes. By adopting a customer-centric approach and leveraging detailed data analysis, I was able to drive strategies that directly contributed to category growth. Seeing how my work could influence consumer behaviour and drive business success was incredibly rewarding.

Unexpected Aspects: Steep learning curve

An unexpected aspect of my placement was the steep learning curve. However, overcoming this challenge was incredibly rewarding. I am proud to have established a category insights framework that will leave a lasting impact, showcasing my analytical, creative, and project management skills in the role.

What are some top tips for future placement students?

In my journey from student to professional, I found that immersing myself in industry knowledge, actively networking, and developing a relevant skill set were crucial. When applying for placements, I tailored my CV and cover letter to each opportunity and thoroughly prepared for interviews by researching company values and practicing common questions. Once in the role, I prioritized being proactive, maintaining clear communication with my team, and actively sought feedback for continuous improvement. Staying organised and adapting to change were essential in navigating the learning curve and excelling during my placement.

Overall, my placement at L'Oréal was a transformative experience that enriched my understanding of business economics and strategic development within a leading global company. The opportunity to lead data-driven projects and deliver actionable insights helped me gain a deeper appreciation for how data and strategy intersect to drive business success.

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Disclaimer

The opinions expressed by our bloggers and those providing comments are personal, and may not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lancaster University. Responsibility for the accuracy of any of the information contained within blog posts belongs to the blogger.