Aoife Sheehy

Marketing with a Year in Industry, 2022

Commercial Graduate Scheme at Reckitt

Class of 2022 graduate, Aoife Sheehy is currently on the Commercial Graduate Scheme at Reckitt. Her first rotation started in September 2022, working as a Marketing Executive, now she is on her final rotation in the sales department as a National Account Executive.


Do you feel that your time in University supported you in getting the role you are in now?

I was very fortunate enough to be offered my role whilst I was in my final year of university. I believe the work experience I obtained during my time as a student really helped me to get this role. It was great to put what I had learnt at university into practice in the real world with real brands and opportunities.         


Can you name some of the skills you gained during your time at ULMS that supported you into your early career?

Presenting with impact; Organisation; Prioritisation; Teamwork; Analytical thinking; Creativity; Leadership.


Have you worked on any significant projects in your role?

Since graduating and starting my first role I have worked on numerous new product developments and projects including influencer campaigns, within the brands I work on. I really had to learn by doing which can be scary and hard, but it is also so rewarding, and I do believe I have been able to progress with my career quicker and take on more responsibility.


 

What advice do you have for those looking to pursue a similar career path?

Get experience, if possible, even if it is not in the industry you want to get into (e.g. my placement year was in technology/automotive, but I knew I wanted to go into FMCG post university). Show passion and explain why you want to work for the particular company or industry. Also, do your research on the company and industry.


 

What are your future aspirations and the next steps in your career?

Once I finish the commercial graduate scheme at Reckitt I plan on staying there for at least a few more years and move my way up in the marketing side of the business. I also want to work on as many brands as possible as they are all unique and have different challenges and opportunities.


 

What is one piece of advice you would give to anyone hoping to study at the University of Liverpool?

If you study here, never say no to an opportunity - you never know how it could benefit you in the future!