Photo of Beth smiling and wearing glasses by a lakeBeth Hutchings

Graduated: BSc Economics
Company: Rolls-Royce
Occupation: Senior HR Business Partner and HR Programme Manager

After graduating from the BSc Economics programme in 2005, Beth joined Rolls-Royce on the HR Graduate Leadership Programme. She has had the opportunity to work internationally and now lives in the Netherlands.

Tell us about your career to date
I started my career with Rolls-Royce in 2005 on the HR Graduate Leadership programme. Following an 18 month rotational training period, including six months in Singapore, I started my first substantive role within the marine business based in the UK. In 2009 I relocated to the Netherlands to undertake a regional HR business partnering role, and more recently I have moved into a role that combines HR business partnering with HR programme management.

What was it like studying at UEA?
I thoroughly enjoyed my course at UEA and believe it has provided me with a solid foundation in economic and business thought. The programme gives enough flexibility to provide core subject understanding, whilst also allowing you to choose subject areas of particular interest.

Why did you decide to study at UEA?
I was attracted to UEA as the economics programme combined my academic interests. I also liked the idea of living on campus in a shared environment with other students.

What did you think about your lecturers, teaching and the facilities?
The lecturers were very knowledgeable and professional in their approach, recognising the abilities of the students in their classes. The facilities were conveniently located on campus.

Did you participate in any UEA clubs and societies?
I was a member of the UEA basketball team in my first two years and in my final year I joined the Netball team, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I also participated in the Erasmus society, which was great.

How did you get your first job after university?
I applied for the Rolls-Royce HR Graduate Leadership programme in my final year of study. This involved a full-day assessment centre and psychometric testing. The programme is a structured introduction to ‘corporate' life with significant training opportunities and hands-on work experience.

How has your course helped you in your career?
My degree is very relevant to the world of business and certainly provided a platform upon which I have been able to build. An understanding of how economies work on both a macro and micro level, as well as foreign exchange and international economies has been highly relevant in my career to date.

What has been your greatest achievement in your career so far?
I have been lucky enough to be able to work internationally and undertake some extremely interesting and satisfying projects.

Looking back to your time at university, what advice would you give to new students?
Take advantage of the opportunities that university life presents – try new things, choose subjects that interest you and try and maintain a ‘work hard, play hard' strategy!

What is your most memorable moment at UEA?
My most memorable moment was probably graduating, as it was so enjoyable and hugely satisfying!