L’Oréal: Unlocking Success

What are some of the most valuable experiences and lessons you gained during your time as a L’Oréal Management Trainee? How did these contribute to your success within the company?
I was exposed to diverse roles within the organisation: Digital marketing for YSL & Armani, product marketing for Lancôme, E-Boutique management and CRM for Kiehl’s, and E-Key Account Management for the entire luxury division. One of the standout moments was when I had the opportunity to lead the 11.11 campaign for Kiehl’s, one of the biggest E-commerce campaigns of the year. We achieved the highest sales in Southeast Asia, and Malaysia became the benchmark for the region. This taught me to be agile and resilient in navigating unforeseen challenges, crucial qualities that helped me succeed within L’Oréal.

Breaking the norm in the beauty industry can be a unique challenge. Can you tell us about your experiences and strategies for thriving in an industry that is traditionally seen as female-dominated?
Although the beauty industry was new territory for me, especially the makeup segment, I still joined L’Oréal with an open mind and a fresh perspective. What helped me navigate through this period successfully was to focus on understanding the dynamism of the business and to adopt a consumer-centric mindset. My advice is to be confident in your unique contributions, having a hunger to learn new things, and to foster a supportive network.

In what specific ways did the L’Oréal Management Trainee programme fast-track your career development during your 18-month journey?
The Management Trainee programme was a career accelerator, offering exposure to various functions and departments. The programme’s rotational nature allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of the industry and the company’s operations. By cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit, I had the opportunity to get hands-on responsibilities which were crucial in propelling my capabilities and ultimately my career as a management trainee. Lastly, working closely with experienced mentors sped up my learning process, preparing me for future leadership roles.

L’Oréal is known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability. How did the programme foster your understanding of these crucial aspects and how did you contribute to them?
Engaging in projects that emphasised these values allowed me to contribute firsthand. For instance, during the Kiehl’s ‘We Skincare About You’ roadshow, which resembled the NYC subway, all the fixtures were reused at each consecutive location. Not to mention, all the materials that were used to construct the fixtures were made from recyclable material. This practical approach shaped my professional beliefs and commitment to always roll out initiatives that are always environmentally friendly.

What does the future hold for you at L’Oréal, and how will the skills and knowledge gained from the programme continue to benefit your journey?
The Management Trainee programme equipped me with a multifaceted skill set and a deep understanding of L’Oréal’s values. The programme’s emphasis on agility and continuous learning has prepared me for leadership roles, and I envision myself taking on strategic responsibilities. Other than that, the network and mentorship gained during the programme will remain pivotal in guiding my professional journey within the company.

For those considering a role as a L’Oréal Management Trainee, what key qualities or attributes do you believe are essential for success in this programme and industry?
Success as a L’Oréal Management Trainee requires a combination of agility, resilience, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for pushing oneself and others to go the extra mile. To embrace diverse experiences and demonstrating a willingness to learn are also crucial qualities for success. These principles will guide and even propel your success in this dynamic beauty industry. When you choose to embark on the journey as Management Trainee at L’Oréal, it is not just a commitment to a role but rather it is also a pledge to be a trailblazer, a catalyst for change, and a future leader in the world of beauty.

Are you intending to begin your professional path with us?

Enter the Brandstorm 2024 innovation challenge here, and visit Careers at L'Oreal Malaysia for more information.