Carving a Career in Luxury at Bvlgari, Oceania

ICMS student India Horner is juggling life as a full-time Marketing & Communications Coordinator role at Bvlgari, Oceania, while still studying for her Bachelor of Business (Marketing). 

But her story actually starts well before graduation, with a big dose of initiative and the chance to grow her skills through real experience. 

Getting Started at ICMS

India’s journey with the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS) began while she was still at Kuring-Gai High School.  

She got early entry through UAC and landed the Wotif Scholarship, a great start and a sign of her effort from the beginning.  

From there, things moved quickly, and before she’d even finished her ICMS Bachelor of Business (Marketing) degree, India was already making her mark in the industry. 

Jumping In: An Internship at Benefit

At ICMS, internships as part of the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program are a huge part of all degrees.  

India took her placement with Benefit Cosmetics (part of the LVMH group), and it turned out to be a game changer. 

“My internship at Benefit Cosmetics was honestly one of the most incredible experiences ever,” India says.  

“I worked alongside such a passionate team for a brand I’ve always admired.” 

In her PR internship, she got to assist with real campaigns, help with product launches, manage events, and work on creator outreach.  

She learned the ropes for media relations and even wrote press releases and event copy.  

There were some unforgettable moments, too, like helping run two huge brand events and supporting launches that made a big impact. 

India especially credits her PR & Community Manager, Claudia Gough, for helping her grow.  

“She mentored me closely, offering detailed feedback, constant support and the trust and freedom to take on projects myself, which was key to my growth,” India says. 

When her time at Benefit ended, Claudia sent India’s resume around the LVMH family.  

That’s how India found out about the opportunity at Bvlgari. Two interviews later, she landed her contract role and made a smooth transition into luxury marketing. 

“Honestly, my internship was instrumental to my growth,” she reflects.  

“It gave me industry connections and taught me skills I now use every day.” 

Working at Bvlgari: No Two Days the Same

Now at Bvlgari, India’s days look different all the time.  

She’s the go-between for boutiques across Australia and New Zealand and the support team in Sydney. She works closely with marketing, CRM, and visual merchandising, sometimes all in one day. 

Her role is hands-on. One day, she’s making lookbooks or handling press loans of Bvlgari’s jewellery to big magazines like Vogue. The next, she’s helping organise major events or working out the logistics for a watch and whiskey evening. 

“It’s surreal to send out lookbooks, facilitate the loan, and get a glimpse into these incredible shoots, then see the jewels you managed show up in your favourite magazines,” she shares. 

A big career moment was single-handedly planning her first event at Bvlgari in Brisbane: a watch and whiskey showcase that brought together guests, great energy, and a few watch sales to top it off.  

“That event meant a lot because I planned it from start to finish,” India says. 

How ICMS Made a Difference

India says her time at ICMS set her up for success, both by helping her land her internship and by teaching practical skills she still uses. 

“ICMS’ emphasis on employability skills has been essential, not just for getting the job but for actually working in a fast-moving global company,” she says.  

Communication, problem-solving, and time management are now second nature to her because of her studies. 

“Industry experience can be learned on the job, but having the foundation of these skills is what’s really important in any role,” India adds. 

Balancing Study and Full-Time Work

Balancing a full-time contract job with Bvlgari while finishing her degree isn’t easy, but India has made it work.  

She’s adjusted her subject load and does her classes online so she can stay on top of both worlds. 

“I’m really big on balance, so even though I’m busy, I’ll always prioritise a walk with my friend in the evenings or some downtime on weekends,” she says.  

Her advice? Start assignments early, stay organised, and always make time for things that bring you joy. 

For anyone stepping into an internship, India recommends going all in.  

“Show up with passion, be eager to learn, and connect with your team in a meaningful way, not just for the sake of ‘making connections.’  

“The experience will help you grow, not just in your career but as a person.”