We caught up with Olivia who is currently an HR Industrial Placement Student, she shares her experience at Unilever so far...
What is your role and how long have you been at Unilever?
I’m a HR Industrial Placement Student working on the HR National Team, and I’ve been in role since June.
What inspired you to apply for this role/this company?
I like working with people and seeing how I can help them, so HR seemed like a natural area for me to explore. As Unilever is such a huge company there are so many different areas of HR within the business, and I knew that the role would allow me to explore lots of different areas.
What do you find most interesting with the sector/industry you’re in?
Unilever is such a huge company, and their products are used by so many people in the UK and across the globe. They have so many big brands such as Ben & Jerrys, Vaseline and Dove as well as local jewels such as Marmite and Pot Noodle. As a company, they’re constantly looking for ways to enhance their products to ensure that they can be better than their competitors.
What is the company culture like?
I’ve never had a corporate job before, so I wasn’t too sure what to expect but everyone is incredibly friendly and happy to help! They really do make sure that you feel comfortable and have the support you need.
How important is diversity to you and what is Unilever doing in this space at the moment?
Working at a company that reflected society was really important to me. I admire that Unilever is actively working to make the company more inclusive. They have 4 networks that aim to support those from minority backgrounds. The networks are heavily involved in Unilever’s culture, and they hold events to raise awareness or celebrate events from that particular network. For example, in Empower they held events to celebrate Black History Month. This was incredibly insightful and made me feel proud to work somewhere that recognises the importance of diversity.
Finally, any tips for anyone who’d like to apply for a role at Unilever?
Be yourself! Unilever wants to see what you’re like as a person, let them see how amazing you are!