Alex Dharmawan
Degree: BA, Economics, University of Leeds
Joined ICI 2003
Currently a Senior Brand Manager, Dulux - Wood, Metal and Exteriors, UK
Why did you choose ICI and Paints for your internship?
Firstly, ICI met my aspiration to gain experience of working within a market leading, blue-chip, global organisation. From a personal point of view, the internship enabled me to gain practical experience and to strengthen my CV against a relatively theoretical academic background. I was particularly impressed during the recruitment process by the dynamic nature of the commercial function, the people-orientated culture and the opportunities for fast-track development.
What have you been doing since then?
Following the completion of my degree, I joined on the ICI EGDP in 2003. Over the duration of the 2 year commercial programme, I spent a year within the Consumer Marketing Team before commencing my first 'Sales' role, working in the Customer Account Team for Paints' second largest customer. The role enabled me to gain valuable experience liaising directly and developing strong relationships with the retailers; buying, merchandising & marketing teams. After 9 months into the role, I was offered the opportunity to work on the Customer Account Team of Paints' largest customer as Account Manager for Dulux Exteriors portfolio. I took on the role (completing the EGDP 3 months ahead of the scheduled 2 years) and after a year in the position re-joined the Consumer Marketing Team in my current role. My experiences in the commercial function have been very positive - challenging roles across both the sales and marketing functions have enabled me to move into a Senior Brand Management position at the age of 24.
What were your responsibilities in the Graduate sales role?
Reporting to the Senior Account Manager, I was responsible for; EPOS sales tracking/analysis, collaboratively forecasting with the retailer, range review management and in-store POS design management. Through taking ownership for specific projects, it was possible to gain experience liaising directly with the retailers' commercial team.
What skills did you need for that?
You need to know what your company does and, more importantly, how to deliver what your client wants. For that you need to be good at listening, communicating, project-leading, presenting and negotiating.
Overall, are you enjoying life at ICI?
It's an exciting job at an exciting company which has evolved considerably even in the three and a half years I've been at ICI. I've felt like I'm making a real contribution from day 1 and you'll get that from ICI. It's a motivating, dynamic environment where potential and ability is rewarded.
