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Degree type: Business Studies

How long have you been at GSK?
I started at GSK in September 2007 on the Finance graduate scheme.

What made you apply to GSK?
After spending a lot of time researching various graduate scheme’s and 'blue chip' companies in my final year at University, GSK really stood out as one of the best for me.

GSK, as a FTSE 100 company, has a great reputation which I knew would provide lots of opportunities. As it is based all over the world, I hoped there would be the opportunity to travel and work with people from all different cultures.

With both a pharmaceutical and consumer business, I felt like I would get the best of both worlds. I could work across very different and exciting areas, ranging from GMS (Global Manufacturing Services) to IT to R&D. Again this would provide opportunities to mix with a number of different people.

Finally, working for a prosperous company with good corporate social responsibility was important for me. I was aware of the mentoring scheme GSK offers in the local community and the official charity day it offers once a year.

What made you apply to the Finance Development Programme?
I studied Business Studies at university and specialised in Finance in my final year. The opportunity to rotate around three different area’s of the business in just three year’s, as well as studying for my CIMA qualification really attracted me to the Finance programme at GSK.

What was your first role?
My first role at GSK was as a Finance Analyst in the “Europe Pharma” area of the business supporting the southern & eastern Europe region.

I supported complex markets such as Kazakhstan and Bosnia with small finance teams, as well as much more stabilised markets with larger finance teams like Greece and Portugal. During the month end process I reviewed the individual market’s profit and loss accounts; this enabled me to get a good understanding of the numbers whilst learning about the different markets and economic environments.

I visited Romania as part of this placement which was definitely one of the highlights, enabling me to develop excellent relationships with the market contacts and understand the challenges they face on a day to day basis.

What have been your subsequent roles?
I joined Consumer Healthcare UK (CHUK) in September 2008. My role is to support the over-the-counter marketing teams. The brands I support include Beechams for cold & flu and Piriton for allergies. Before launching a new product I work with the marketing team to assess the financial suitability of the launch.

On a monthly basis I provide the brand teams with updates on their sales performance versus plan for that particular month. I also assist with the production of rolling forecasts. This experience is helping to develop my core finance skills.

Working in CHUK provides the benefits of working in a small business alongside the excitement and stability of being a member of the wider GSK community. It is fast paced, team focused and I have achieved a good commercial understanding of the brands.

What kind of support do you get?
We have a graduate programme Co-ordinator dedicated solely to the Finance programme. Additionally, we are provided with access to a supportive graduate network with a ‘buddy scheme’. This means there is always someone to turn to when I have a question.

We are encouraged to find our own mentor, which is relatively easy to do, as being on a rotation scheme means we get to meet many influential people. We also have regular networking events, which past graduates and previous graduate managers attend.

During exam time we are given study leave and time to attend revision courses. These, as well as our exams, are all paid for.

What is the company culture like for you?
Within the different business units at GSK the culture can vary, however everyone is very friendly and always willing to help.

There is a good work life balance which is very much encouraged. We have team nights out and graduate events regularly. Last year for example, a group of 20 graduates ran a 6km charity race in London with many other corporate companies.

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