Why I chose Centrica: After completing the summer internship with Centrica, I felt completely supported throughout the whole process and I knew that is what I wanted from any company post University. It is difficult to navigate life post University especially as someone who has never had a set career path, so with Centrica being a leading FTSE 100 energy services and solutions company, I knew that starting my career here would not only develop my skills and my interests. Centrica offered 3 placements across 2.5 years and for someone who can just about manage to decide what she is having for lunch, having the experience and exposure to various roles in marketing and the opportunity to work with a number of award winning household brands that Centrica is parent company of, I knew that Centrica would help me make a decision on my career path.
What I enjoy most about my stream: The people! Myself and the group of grads in my year became incredibly close after spending a month together living in Leicester for our first contact centre placement and from there I have been surrounded by super welcoming, encouraging, clever and fun people. I also love the fact that learning is constantly encouraged with Centrica offering the level 4 marketing apprenticeship which I now study for alongside my degree. Starting my grad scheme remotely was incredibly difficult especially as an extrovert but I believe the marketing grads tried hard to get us face to face or if that could not happen we would make sure we organised socials and in person events.
Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: Moving to a different city for our contact centre placement in Leicester was incredibly fun, getting to explore a different city, starting corporate life, and learning how to deal with customers on the front line meant that we all got stuck in very quickly and learnt a lot. I would also say another highlight would be finally finding what I love in marketing and not being treated like a stereotypical graduate! Working in my current role and having an incredibly supportive team and manager who encourage graduates to own projects and responsibilities has been a great opportunity to push myself and I am truly grateful for that.
My one piece of advice to applicants: Do your research! It is important to showcase that you have made an effort to understand the company, the role, the industry and especially the core Centrica values- care, delivery, agility, courage and collaboration. During the process Centrica want to see how you and your experiences have aligned to their values! I mean as cliché as it sounds you do not need to be an expert to apply for this scheme, but Centrica want people people, which essentially means do not hold back in showcasing your individuality and how your uniqueness will be an asset to the scheme and any role you undertake within the scheme!
