I Got Hired: UK Trading Executive with The Hut Group (THG)

Posted on: 25 November 2019 in Graduate stories

Rachael O’Callaghan is a recent graduate from the BA Honours International Business with Year in Industry at the University of Liverpool. She is now working as a UK Trading Executive at THG (The Hut Group).

She talks about her placement year, the importance of work experience, and making the most of our Career Connect programme and support available in the Career Studio while at University.

What has been your best experience while studying your course at the University of Liverpool?

My placement year was by far my best experience. I was able to move to London for the year and put into practice the skills that I had learnt at university whilst learning new skills on the job. I believe my placement year really helped me to secure my graduate job and a first class degree.

Which aspects of your course do you think have been the most beneficial to your career development?

The placement year specific modules, the careers and employability service and the group projects throughout the course.

Can you please share an insight into your current role and if this was supported by your time at the University of Liverpool?

I went to a Career Connect session specific to THG (The Hut Group) as I wanted to find out a bit more about the company and the roles available. Throughout the talk, they were emphasising how much they look for experience in the industry when recruiting graduates, specially students who had undertaken placement years. I then spoke to Simon who had led the talk and he was impressed by my experience at Debenhams as my role was very similar to the roles that THG had available.

The application process was tough, and involved a mix of technical and competency based tests and interviews. Prior to my assessment centre, I visited the Career Studio and the advice and insight they gave me was hugely useful. I’d recommend anyone applying for placements, internships or graduate roles to speak with a Career Coach before or during the application process, as you may get some valuable insight into what certain organisations want in your application.

Do you have any top tips to share with future and current students?

Make the most of the careers service. Try and get as much experience as possible whether it is for a year or just for a week. Even if you don’t think a company will have roles to suit your skillset check them out anyway - you never know!

What is the first thing that you think of when you think of the University of Liverpool?

All of the amazing memories that I have created - I will think of it as the place that has set me up to excel in my future career.

Other memories include winning the league with the Women’s 1st football team, I had a great final year with regards to education and social.