About the Company & Graduate Programme
Unilever is a global powerhouse of purpose-driven brands, reaching over 3.4 billion people daily with products that span nutrition, personal care, and home hygiene. Our UK footprint is anchored in our London headquarters and various manufacturing excellence centres, where we lead the industry in integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into every facet of our operations. We recognise that the future of business relies on agile, tech-savvy leaders who understand the intersection of logistical efficiency and environmental responsibility.
This Graduate Programme is pivotal to our 'Compass' strategy, designed to cultivate the next generation of supply chain architects. You will be immersed in a culture that champions innovation, transparency, and inclusion, working within teams that manage complex, global supply networks. This scheme is not merely an entry-level position; it is a fast-tracked development pathway for individuals who want to tackle the most pressing challenges in sustainable procurement, digital manufacturing, and distribution logistics while helping Unilever maintain its status as a top-tier FTSE 100 employer.
What You'll Do & Key Responsibilities
- Manage end-to-end supply chain workstreams, from raw material sourcing to final product distribution, ensuring adherence to our Climate Transition Action Plan.
- Utilise advanced analytical tools including SAP, PowerBI, and cloud-based forecasting software to drive data-informed decision-making.
- Lead cross-functional project teams to identify operational bottlenecks and implement process improvements that reduce carbon emissions and waste.
- Engage with senior stakeholders to present business cases for supply chain digitisation and technological upgrades.
- Collaborate with manufacturing sites to integrate Industry 4.0 solutions, such as IoT sensors and automated packaging technologies.
- Support customer service and logistics teams in navigating complex market fluctuations, ensuring high-quality service levels for our retail partners.
- Take ownership of a specific 'Change Project' that contributes to the long-term sustainability metrics of a major product category.
Who We Are Looking For & Candidate Eligibility
- A minimum 2:1 degree (or predicted) in STEM (Engineering, Data Science, Math), Business, Supply Chain Management, or related disciplines.
- A deep curiosity for sustainable technology and a passion for environmental impact within large-scale operations.
- Exceptional analytical mindset with the ability to translate complex data sets into clear, actionable business insights.
- Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguous environments and lead collaborative projects within a fast-paced team.
- Strong communication skills, capable of influencing senior-level stakeholders and working across international teams.
- Resilience and a proactive approach to problem-solving, with a desire to challenge the status quo.
- Candidates must possess the right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme (we provide support for Graduate Route visa holders).
- Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies, keeping pace with digital transformation in the manufacturing sector.
Graduate Training, Rotations & Mentorship
Your 24-month journey consists of three 8-month rotations across diverse functions, such as Procurement, Manufacturing, Planning, and Logistics. This structure ensures a comprehensive understanding of the business, allowing you to build a broad network and identify your area of specialisation. Throughout the scheme, you will have access to formal training pathways, including support for professional qualifications relevant to your trajectory, such as APICS certifications, CEng (for engineering-focused roles), or Prince2 project management accreditation.
You will be supported by a dedicated 'Buddy' (a recent programme graduate) and a Senior Mentor (a business leader) who will provide ongoing career guidance and professional development coaching. This mentorship framework is designed to nurture your leadership potential and ensure you feel empowered to contribute ideas from your very first day.
Salary, Bonus & Benefits Package
- Competitive base salary of £36,500 per annum, with reviews at rotation milestones.
- Performance-related annual bonus scheme based on individual and business-wide sustainability and financial targets.
- Generous pension scheme with employer contribution matching up to 10%.
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, with an option to purchase additional leave.
- Private medical insurance and comprehensive wellbeing support, including a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Hybrid working allowance to support your home office setup, alongside full access to our state-of-the-art London office facilities.
- Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the London area to begin their career.
Recruitment Stages & How to Apply
- Online Application: Submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your motivation for a career in sustainable supply chains.
- Gamified Assessment: Complete our interactive cognitive and situational judgement tests designed to evaluate your problem-solving style.
- On-Demand Video Interview: A pre-recorded session where you will answer a series of competency-based questions at your own pace.
- Virtual Assessment Centre: Participate in group exercises, individual analytical case studies, and a final technical presentation with our senior hiring managers.
We operate on a rolling recruitment basis. We strongly urge early submission of your application, as we fill positions as high-calibre candidates are identified.