What's your job about?

RB is a global FMCG business with a portfolio of brands focused on home, hygiene and healthcare categories. I am in my second rotation of the graduate scheme as a National Account Executive on the Woolworths account managing part of the healthcare portfolio.

As a National Account Executive, the key focus in the role is external-facing as it’s a sales role – I am responsible for developing and implementing sales strategy, managing a relationship with Woolworths and commercial negotiations with the customer and looking to continuously improve the performance of the portfolio. It is a role that is challenging and a steep learning curve but you’re always supported along the way.

What's your background?

I studied Commerce at UNSW and was interested in FMCG as it’s an industry that fast paced, strategic and has opportunities for a global career in other markets.

I am in my current role as part of my second rotation in the graduate program at RB - I spent 18 months as an Assistant Brand Manager part of the Marketing team and am now on the Woolworths team as a National Account Executive.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Of course – I think the characteristics and outlook in this job are most important; being flexible and able to adapt to the environment you’re operating in. FMCG is a fast paced industry and the nature of RB is no different.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The most satisfying part of my job and the industry is seeing my work come to life – whether that is a new product launch, an in-store marketing execution or a branded TVC on air.

Another part of RB I enjoy is the social aspect, the people you work with become your friends, there are a lot of events to get involved with like sports on Fridays, City to Surf or just Friday drinks with your team.

What are the limitations of your job?

The nature of RB is that you will be given responsibility in your role from day 1 that has a direct commercial and financial impact on the business and as a result, you feel stretched in your role – The positive side of this is that once you become comfortable it will be time to move to the next role and start that cycle again!

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

• Enjoy your free time and holidays while you’re a student – You won’t have as much free time once you’re working
• Plan ahead if you’re applying for grad/intern programs, they have cut-off dates and if you miss them you will have to wait until mid-year intake or the following year
• Research the companies and industries you’re looking to work in – it makes everything a lot easier to apply for jobs when you have an interest in the industry or company you’re applying and potentially going to work for.