Assistant HR Business Partner Review

Day to day involved data analytics, reviewing practices and procedures, creating and implementing strategies such as an ED&I agenda. HRBP involves making sure the partner and the business are aligned on practices and being the HR representative for the partner in times of need and to get their voice, concerns and needs heard. Time will be spent, enhancing staff development plans, planning HR initiatives and landing them in the business.

Developed my digital proficiency, diplomacy, presenting skills, written communication, cross cultural competencies, project and people management skills, understanding of the business and how it works, my ability to network and verbally communicate and to maintain confidence and stand my ground when necessary.

Responsibility from the first day. I was given the opportunity to own projects from start to finish. Responsibility of presenting my projects to the leadership team and then given the chance to take them forward to fruition and land them in the business.

Guidance and support from my line managers and team was fantastic throughout the placement year. Everyone was so helpful and considerate when I was asking what felt like stupid questions all the time. The team also struck the balance of letting me figure things out for myself without smothering me. The feedback was always constructive not critical and I was never afraid to ask for more explanation if I didn’t understand.

A great culture where young peoples thoughts and opinions are highly valued. Learning is a big part of Unilever culture, everyone even senior leaders and CEO are always learning and have learning development plans to follow to ensure everyone is staying relevant with the right skills. The atmosphere was friendly and welcoming always despite being over MS Teams - most people always had their camera on which really helped!

I had a fantastic year despite completing it virtually on MS Teams. Learnt a lot of skills both professional and personal as well as creating a great network of professional contacts.

Yes

Be yourself from the outset, remember job related skills can be taught they will invest in you and your personality. Don’t be afraid to showcase you creativity no matter how crazy the idea seems.