Degree Apprentice R & D Review

by Unilever

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.6/10

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

I'm a food science apprentice so for my first placement I an shadowing a product developer to launch a line of tea in the European market. So I'm involved with suppliers, different teams within Unilever, making and tasting samples and tracking development to overall make a product to fit market research.

9/10

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

I've improved my time management and prioritisation through balancing work and Uni work. I study part time at NTU and am being able to link class to work is great. Along the way I have also improved my communication and how to approach different situations professionally.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really like how I'm able to ask a lot of questions and that I'm also encouraged to do so. I really enjoy the flexibility and independence I have and how I can get involved in different aspects of the business.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is well structured with opportunity to diversify skills and knowledge, and support is readily available from both work and Uni if you ask. I also like how I have set time to study on Fridays and block weeks.

9/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I'm able to reach out to my manger about any issues I have and work together on next steps.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I have meetings with my tutor and mentor to see how I'm doing and lecturers also offer support, it can be a longer wait as emailing takes longer, but easier to ask on block weeks.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I get to understand and more of the things that make up the actions I do at work and the protocols I follow. And as time goes on my work and Uni work will feed more into eachother.

9/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes, there are a few clubs on site like netball and a small gym you can join.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I'm really enjoying my time working here and feel I can progress and grow my career here.

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

To research the company and find things you are passionate within the brands, values and actions.