The Unilever Winter Internship Programme (Marketing Internship) 2024
About Unilever
Unilever is a global consumer goods
powerhouse renowned for its diverse portfolio of brands and unwavering
commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. With a rich heritage
spanning over a century, Unilever has emerged as a leader in the fast-moving
consumer goods (FMCG) industry, touching the lives of billions of people
worldwide every day. From household staples like Dove, Lipton, and Knorr to
iconic beauty brands such as Axe, Tresemmé, and Pond's, Unilever's products are
synonymous with quality, innovation, and trust. Beyond its commercial success,
Unilever stands out for its ambitious Sustainable Living Plan, aiming to
enhance livelihoods, reduce environmental footprint, and promote health and
well-being across its value chain. With a global presence and a relentless
drive for excellence, Unilever continues to shape the future of consumer goods
while making a positive impact on society and the planet.
Unilever's Marketing Internship
Unilever, a household name synonymous
with iconic brands like Dove, Lipton, and Knorr, is renowned for its innovative
marketing strategies. The Winter Internship Programme grants marketing
enthusiasts a glimpse into this world. Interns collaborate with experienced
marketing professionals, gaining hands-on experience across various marketing
functions.
Minimum Qualifications Needed
3-Year University Degree:
Students who are currently in the
process of completing or have already completed a 3-year university degree in
any discipline are eligible to apply. While the program welcomes candidates
from diverse academic backgrounds, there is a preference for individuals with
degrees in fields such as BCom (Bachelor of Commerce), BEng (Bachelor of
Engineering), and BBS (Bachelor of Business Science). This preference may stem
from the relevance of these disciplines to the skills and knowledge required
for roles within Unilever's marketing function.
4-Year BTech Degree:
Similarly, students who have pursued
or are in the process of completing a 4-year BTech degree (NQF Level 7) are
eligible to apply. The preference within this category lies with degrees in
areas such as BTech Marketing Management, BTech Communications, and BTech
Public Relations. These specialized degrees may offer candidates a more focused
understanding of marketing principles and practices, aligning closely with the
requirements of the internship role.
By specifying these minimum
requirements, Unilever aims to ensure that applicants possess the foundational
knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic and fast-paced
environment of marketing within the company. Additionally, by expressing preferences
for certain disciplines within both the university and BTech degree categories,
Unilever may be seeking candidates who demonstrate a strong alignment with the
competencies and expertise valued within the marketing domain.
Key Responsibilities in This Role Include:
Global Brand Marketing
In the realm of global brand
marketing, your primary responsibility is to steer the strategic direction of
Unilever's brands across different markets. This involves aligning market needs
with brand strengths to drive market development. You'll collaborate with
global teams to craft brand and consumer strategies that influence consumer
behavior and category growth. Leading innovation projects is also crucial for
market and brand expansion, requiring cross-functional collaboration to deliver
timely and impactful innovations.
Local Brand Marketing
In local brand marketing, your focus
shifts to executing the strategies developed at the global level. Here, you'll
treat your brand as a growing business, understanding it from consumer,
shopper, and customer perspectives. Your role involves bringing brand toolkits
to life in your market, working closely with shopper and consumer insights to
optimize messaging and channel selection. Collaboration with the customer team
is essential for tailoring activations by retailer and driving brand share and
volume growth. Additionally, you'll lead innovation projects initiated by the
brand development team, fostering cross-functional teamwork.
Customer Development
Part of your developmental journey
involves Customer Development, where you partner with trade partners such as
Walmart, Pick n Pay, Checkers, and Clicks to bring Unilever brands to market.
As the face of Unilever among customers like traders, retailers, and
wholesalers, you'll play a crucial role in building and maintaining
relationships, driving brand visibility, and facilitating growth opportunities.
In essence, this role combines
strategic thinking with hands-on implementation, requiring a deep understanding
of both global brand vision and local market dynamics. Collaboration across
teams and effective communication with trade partners are key to success in
this multifaceted role.
What You Might Gain
Mentorship
Mentorship within the Unilever Winter
Internship Programme offers interns the invaluable opportunity to receive
guidance and support from experienced marketing professionals. These mentors,
seasoned in their fields, provide not only practical advice but also insights
garnered from years of industry experience. Through one-on-one sessions,
workshops, and shadowing opportunities, interns can glean knowledge about best
practices, industry trends, and career development strategies. This mentorship
fosters not only professional growth but also personal development, as interns
receive feedback, encouragement, and constructive criticism aimed at honing
their skills and refining their professional identities.
Networking Opportunities
Interacting with diverse teams across
Unilever's organization presents interns with a rich tapestry of networking
opportunities. By collaborating with professionals from various departments,
interns can expand their horizons, forge meaningful connections, and build a
robust network of industry contacts. These interactions go beyond casual
conversations, often leading to mentorship relationships, collaboration on
projects, and even potential job opportunities. Through networking events, team
meetings, and cross-functional projects, interns gain exposure to different
perspectives, ideas, and career paths, enhancing their understanding of the
broader marketing landscape and facilitating future collaborations and
partnerships.
Exposure to Unilever's Sustainability
Efforts
As a sustainability leader, Unilever
integrates sustainable practices into all aspects of its operations, including
marketing strategies. Through the Winter Internship Programme, interns gain
insights into how sustainability is woven into the fabric of Unilever's
marketing initiatives. This exposure may involve learning about sustainable
sourcing practices, environmentally friendly packaging solutions, or campaigns
promoting social responsibility. Interns have the opportunity to witness
firsthand how Unilever aligns its brand messaging with its sustainability
goals, engaging consumers in meaningful conversations about environmental
stewardship and social impact. By understanding the intersection of marketing
and sustainability, interns emerge from the program equipped with a holistic
view of responsible business practices and their role in shaping a more
sustainable future.
How to Apply
Applications are currently open. Click here to apply.
The Unilever Winter Internship
Programme (Marketing) presents a captivating opportunity for marketing
aspirants. With the chance to gain valuable skills, network with industry
professionals, and contribute to a world-renowned brand, this program could be
the stepping stone to a flourishing marketing career. By staying updated on
Unilever's career postings and highlighting your marketing passion, you can
increase your chances of landing this coveted internship.
