Intern insights with Meg Brooks

We recently welcomed Meg Brooks to Victory to experience different departments during her “year in industry” placement. So far, she's got to grips with HR and Marketing, and will shortly be moving into procurement. Let's find out a bit more about Meg…

What are you studying at University and why?

I'm studying International Business at the University of Leeds. I chose that degree because I enjoyed business and economic subjects at A-level, and the vast possibilities it could lead to in the future. During my first and second year, I studied modules like industrial economics, global entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural management. I've loved my time at university so far and thought a placement year would give me valuable experience but let me put what I've learnt so far into practice. And what a great business to experience!

What made you consider Victory for your year in industry?

In my second year I started to look for placements but I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to do. When I approached Victory, they were able to offer me a placement that involved me rotating between departments and this swayed my decision. It meant that I could try up to four different job roles rather than one. So far, I've experienced HR and Marketing and I've loved each department for different reasons - it's going to be hard to choose a favourite!

 

How were your first three months in Human Resources?

Being in the HR team was great. The team taught me crucial skills that allow a workforce to work efficiently. I also learnt how to communicate, motivate and assist people depending on their personal situations, and shadowing the team gave me the skills I need to speak to all kinds of people in the future.

 

How were your three months in Marketing?

After my time in HR, I moved into the marketing team. I dived straight into all things marketing including photoshoots, creating content for the internal newsletter and attending meetings with internal and external stakeholders. It's been interesting getting a glimpse of what happens ‘behind the scenes’ to make campaigns successful and how much hard work goes into making Victory stand apart.

 

What are you looking forward to during your three months in procurement?

I enjoy all things commercial so I’m excited to learn how relationships with suppliers are nurtured to get the best outcome for everyone. I’m intrigued to find out where our materials come from to make such unique and modern homes. There must be a lot of planning, communication, and teamwork involved so I'm looking forward to getting stuck in and using what I've learnt so far. 

 

So far, what have been your highlights at Victory?

One of the things I'm proud of is becoming a mental health first aider, a qualification I gained while in the HR team.  While working in the HR department I noticed how important good mental health is for our teams' wellbeing and productivity. I'm glad Victory, and their parent company J R Rix and Sons Ltd, take the mental health of their team seriously. 

In early February, Victory attended the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show in Glasgow. I was involved in the planning beforehand and seeing it come to life was a great feeling. It was a big CV booster and another string to add to my bow!

 

What does the future hold for you after your studies?

I'm still deciding what I want to do but this year has definitely helped me understand what I like (and what I don't). I’m going to carry on throwing myself into new challenges to gain more experience and knowledge, and hopefully by the time my studies are over I’ll have some idea of what career I want to pursue. 

Which is your favourite Victory and why?

It's got to be the Franklin - the layout of the lounge and kitchen is just how I’d like my home to be. I could happily live in one! I especially like the bi-fold windows around the dining table which I've never seen before. The Franklin has an elegant yet modern style that sets it apart from the rest in my opinion. 

What do you get up to in your free time?

I like keeping active, and play for a local netball team and enjoy running. I also enjoy going out for food and drinks with my family and friends. My family and I also love going to Cyprus a couple of times a year where many cocktails and Meze’s are consumed!

If the world was to end tomorrow, what would your last 3 course meal be?

As a foodie, I love this question! For my starter it would be an antipasti with olives, bread, cheese and meats. Then for my main it would be seafood linguine. I would finish with some warm cookie dough and ice cream. Yum.