Marketing Industrial Placement (Slough, GB)

Embark on a Marketing Career Journey with AkzoNobel: A 12-Month Industrial Placement Opportunity

AkzoNobel, a global leader in paints and coatings with a rich heritage dating back to 1792, invites ambitious students to join their dynamic team for a 12-month Marketing Industrial Placement. This is a unique chance to gain invaluable hands-on experience within a world-renowned company, shaping the future of surfaces and enhancing everyday life. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, AkzoNobel offers a platform for growth and development, making this placement a significant stepping stone in your career.

This paid placement, commencing on July 1st, 2026, with a salary of £26,000, is based in Slough, Berkshire. It's an exceptional opportunity to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world, high-profile international business environment.

What Awaits You: Key Advantages for Aspiring Marketers

• Real-World Impact: Contribute to the marketing efforts of iconic brands like Dulux, International, Sikkens, and Interpon, directly impacting how consumers interact with these trusted products.
• Specialized Experience: Choose between two distinct pathways to tailor your learning:
  • Digital Marketing: Dive into website management, application development, email marketing, e-commerce projects, and competitor analysis. You'll play a role in enhancing the customer experience through digital channels.
  • Brand Marketing: Support the development and delivery of marketing initiatives for UK decorative brands, assisting in brand communications and shopper development activities.
• Global Exposure: Be part of a company active in over 150 countries, gaining insights into international marketing strategies and collaborating across global and regional platforms.
• Personal Development: AkzoNobel is dedicated to fostering your growth with opportunities for personal development, offering roles with significant breadth, depth, and impact.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Beyond the competitive salary, you'll enjoy a generous holiday allowance (25 days plus bank holidays), staff discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, life assurance, a company pension, product discounts, and access to a flexible benefits scheme that can include gym memberships, retail cards, and dental cover.
• Commitment to Wellbeing: AkzoNobel prioritizes a healthy work-life balance and mental wellbeing, and is open to discussing flexible working options.
• Inclusive Culture: Join an organization that actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and respect, where all employees are encouraged to be their best selves.

Key Considerations for Your Application: Guiding Your Career Path

This industrial placement is ideally suited for individuals who are:

• Currently pursuing a relevant degree: A solid academic foundation in a related field is essential.
• Possessing a foundational understanding of business: While not requiring extensive experience, a grasp of business essentials will be beneficial.
• Enthusiastic and adaptable: A genuine passion for marketing, a high level of energy, and a proactive approach to learning new concepts are crucial.
• Technically proficient: Strong computer literacy is a must for navigating various marketing tools and platforms.
• Excellent communicators: The ability to articulate ideas clearly, manage time effectively, and foster strong interpersonal relationships will set you apart.
• Team players: A collaborative spirit and a willingness to support colleagues are highly valued in AkzoNobel's culture.
• Detail-oriented and self-motivated: An eye for detail ensures accuracy in marketing execution, while being a self-starter drives initiative and problem-solving.

To highlight your suitability, your cover letter should thoughtfully address:

1. What specifically ignites your interest in the field of marketing?
2. What unique qualities or experiences make you an outstanding candidate for this specific role?

This industrial placement is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to learn from the best, contribute to meaningful projects, and build a strong foundation for a successful career in marketing. If you are ready to make your mark and help AkzoNobel "paint the future together," we encourage you to apply.