Data Science Degree Apprentice Review

I am a data science degree apprentice at Unilever. I am currently based in the data and analytics global products team. On a day to day basis I work with a team industrializing a tool which analyses and reports the innovation and renovation performance of different projects. This involves user on-boarding and delta analysis between legacy systems. Also I create python scripts to automate manual reporting and operations.

Unilever offer a wide variety of training courses and opportunities to develop skills and knowledge. I have taken many microsoft training courses, as well as internal training within Unilever. This has ranged from data security training to discovering your purpose workshops. My role has enabled me to gain critical problem solving skills and agility which has enabled me to navigate a dynamic business environment as well as develop key programming, statistical and modelling skills.

I really enjoy my data science degree apprenticeship at Unilever the opportunities, community and exposure has allowed me to grow and develop as a data scientist and a leader. My confidence has grown significantly since joining this program. However due to COVID the social aspect that I was expecting from this apprenticeship has been disappointing as a result of meeting virtually, however this is quickly changing while still aligning with government guidelines. .

The Data Science Degree Apprenticeship is extremely well structured. The university tasks and study align with my role within Unilever. I receive a lot of support from my team and mentors, the opportunity to work with experts in their field means I am constantly learning. I take one day a week to study which is sufficient to ensure i complete my study.

Unilever provide a tremendous amount of support. There is a dedicated team for apprentices that take care of any concerns. Also my line manager and mentors are always there to ensure i have a good work life balance. They offer continuous support and guidance with daily tasks and also future career prospects.

My training provider has been very supportive; listening to feedback and adapting the course where appropriate. I really enjoy this part of the apprenticeship as I get the best of both worlds by attending a University. Any problems or concerns have been dealt with efficiently and I am receiving a lot of support to ensure I can achieve good results and perform to the best of my ability.

The learning's from University are extremely applicable to the work I do at Unilever. In some cases it has increased my confidence to speak up and contribute my own ideas. It has significantly increased my capabilities and now have the knowledge, skills and behaviors to take on a range of highly skilled tasks of a data scientists, such as modelling and forecasting.

The community team at Unilever are great! They arrange lots of events and activities to get involved in. Despite COVID and becoming a virtual world for the last 2 years or so, I have been involved in baking, cocktail classes, walking etc! There is also a lot of onsite activities and social events, such as football, netball, yoga as well as seasonal celebrations.

Yes

Unilever has allowed me to learn and earn! I have gained so much experience and knowledge from working at Unilever. The business values and principals align with my purpose and the community and people are amazing. Everyone is so talented and I am constantly learning new things. My confidence has grown significantly as a result of working at Unilever.

The application process can be stressful however be prepared and be confident. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you know what your favorite Unilever brand is! The on boarding process is brilliant, there is lots of training support. Being an apprentice means there are a lot of exciting opportunities and experiences to get involved in, therefore make sure you are aware of these and discuss your involvement with your line manager.