International Treasury Intern Review

My placement was enjoyable throughout and I was lucky to participate in many social events throughout the year with other interns and my department. I approached my internship with a 'work hard play hard' attitude and made sure I was never too stressed out by the work given to me. I enjoyed meeting new people both within the company and externally who I hope to keep in contact with when I leave.

I felt valued by my colleagues as I helped a lot of them out on a regular basis. Everyone who I've met in the company has treated me well and understands my role within the company. I was told that I'd be greatly missed when I leave as I provide quality banter and character to the office.

My manager has been a fantastic influence for myself and I have great respect for him. He has taught me loads of valuable skills which I can take with me for the future. Also, as he was an intern himself in my role a few years ago he understands what its like to be a university student going into employment for a year. I had regular meetings with my manager to talk about my progress and if I had any problems/issues.

I had daily, monthly and ad hoc tasks to complete. Sometimes I'd be super busy especially at the start of the month when completing reports, however through good time management and organization I rarely felt overwhelmed by the work. Some days would be quieter than others, especially when I've completed all of my own tasks but I regularly offered my services to my colleagues when I'm free.

The level of responsibility given to me gradually built up from the start of my placement to a very high level towards the end of my placement. I was given the responsibility of processing worldwide payments for the company and completing reports which would be viewed by senior management. Also due to the nature of my treasury role, I acted as a point of contact between The Body Shop and their banks.

I believe my experience on this internship will definitely give me a boost in securing a job in the future and when I go back to university for my final year. I picked up many new computer skills such as better proficiency in SAP, Excel and Outlook. Also, I enhanced my communication, organizational and networking skills just from completing my day to day job.

The general atmosphere in the office was a good balance between being serious about work and having fun. Fridays would have more of an upbeat atmosphere as usual and certain departments on my floor would talk more than others. The Body Shop hosted several events to boost morale and lighten the mood in the office throughout the year such as a summer and Christmas party.

I felt my work placement had a good structure starting with a handover week in the first week and then slowly easing us into our job. The Body Shop provided several workshops to help facilitate our training.

The company invested into me quite a lot as I travelled to the London Office from where I'm based several times for workshops or learning events. This included an intern swap where I'd shadow another intern for the day. Also, members of management would provide us with skills workshops every now and then.

Due to a business restructuring, the Body Shop have been unable to offer me a graduate scheme. However I have spoken with my manager and in the event that a role presents itself in the future which I'd be suited to within Treasury, I'd be first pick for it. My manager will provide me with a positive reference when I apply for future roles.

There was a great social scene between the interns and I feel we were lucky to get a good group of people this year. I got on with my housemates who are also interns very well and we had several nights out/seshes together. I got along well with my department and we had several dinners together which I enjoyed.

Littlehampton isn't the greatest area to live in and is fairly expensive when compared with other parts of the country but being on the South Coast this was expected. Having a car was useful as I was able to travel to nicer places such as Portsmouth and Brighton. Drinks weren't too bad if going to Wetherspoons though.

Coco Lounge.

There were opportunities to get involved in activities outside work however you'd have to do your own research to find them.