R&D Technologist Review

by Unilever

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Current role involves looking at reducing costs in ice cream formulations across the world in order to meet business saving targets. Work involves carrying out experiments, analysing data and reporting results to stakeholders.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Main skills learnt include how to create ice cream formulations, how to manufacture and process ice cream mixes and how to use analytical equipment.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy my current role as it is very varied. My day is a mixture of desk work and practical work in the Pilot Plant. I have a career path in place which I am following.

8/10

4. How valued do you feel by Unilever?

Unilever is very supportive in developing its people. The people who work for Unilever are very knowledgeable and are always happy to share ideas. The environment is also very relaxed to work in.

9/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

As I joined the apprenticeship scheme having already worked for Unilever, I have been able to organise and structure my own programme to suit my needs. I have moved departments from Beverages to Ice Cream and have worked in three different roles to gain different experiences.

7/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Support is always there if needed. There is an apprentice meeting every 6 weeks to catch up with everyone’s progress and to discuss any news about the scheme.

7/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

There’s always new training and courses to do in order to develop your skills. Unilever are always happy to support my university work as well as my day to day work.

8/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

My salary and benefits are very good considering my age and experience. I have been able to save up and buy my first home near to work thanks to Unilever.

9/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

There are plenty of social events and opportunities outside of work that are communicated via email. I have attended many that include dinners, social games etc.

8/10

9. Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a great company to work for. They are very supportive in developing their people. I am not considering leaving Unilever once I graduate from the apprenticeship scheme.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?

Ensure you do your homework and research the company beforehand – make sure you know about the history of Unilever and the products it makes. Unilever pick people who they think are best suited to the role and would fit in well with the company.