Visual Merchandising Degree Apprentice Review

I work across three US commercial brands. My role mainly involves the management of permanent in-store merchandising for one brand, this includes working on the initial design of the stands to bring in new products, managing supplier to produce these stands, and then organising for external merchandisers to go in store and implement for us. I also help out on smaller tasks on the other two brands, where I am needed. Alongside, mainly managing merchandising process my job also includes smaller projects such as pulling together sale analysis, producing merchandising guidelines and competitor reports/analysis.

I have grown my project management, presentation, organisation and communication skills through having to lead projects. Those in my team have been very supportive, offering different methods to better improve certain skills. I have also been able to develop my Excel skills through using it on a daily basis and training courses.

Enjoying the programme so far, my team and manager are incredibly supportive so I feel like I've got plenty of room to learn, make mistakes, etc in the role. I think the apprenticeship initially was very overwhelming and felt a bit like being thrown in the deep end, however retrospectively I'm glad I had that kind of experience, I think it allowed me to learn faster, and become more confident in my role quicker.

In terms of work I find L'Oreal very structured, although this may come down to your specific team. However, I do think that the organisation/structure between L'Oreal and the university could be better. Between the two it doesn't feel like there is not enough communication, I think there are key messages from university that aren't properly shared with the company. Although L'Oreal are very supportive of having to take time off for study leave/deadlines.

Receive plenty of support from my direct team at work, whether it's day-to-day support within my role, support for university work or even looking at the next steps in my career. Although, from the company as a whole I think more support could be offered.

Not the best support from the university. Although they have been helpful with some individual problems I've had, I think as a whole class we are sometimes left struggling/out of the loop on key information we should ideally have.

Not too much, I don't think a lot of the courses are super applicable to my work. Although, we have the occasional module where we have/can relate our coursework to our work which is sometimes quite helpful.

Yes, L'Oreal offer lots of opportunities to attend events and team building. Although this may differ in each division .

Yes

Everyone is super supportive, keen to get you involved. Great environment to learn and make mistakes.

Be well prepared for interview/assessment centre, and be confident and be yourself as its a great way to see if you will fit in with the team.