With the start of my school’s work experience week, CJC allowed me to work with the Commercial Management team. It was my first time in a professional environment, and a massive opportunity to learn from those around me and understand what it means to be working. As soon as I walked into the building, the phrase “market data” was introduced. I quickly realised that understanding its importance and function would be essential.

Starting with the Essentials: Safety and Security

Before diving into market data, I first had to understand how to stay safe in a professional environment. My induction training covered data privacy, confidentiality, and cybersecurity—essential foundations for working with sensitive information.

I learned the difference between personal and sensitive personal information, and why both need to be handled with care. I was also introduced to five types of confidential data—from financial and product details to employee records and trade secrets—and how to protect them.

The final part of the training focused on malware awareness. I was surprised to learn that 90% of cyberattacks are caused by human error. I picked up simple but important habits, like hovering over suspicious links and reporting phishing attempts. This training, delivered by KnowBe4.com, really made clear how everyone plays a part in protecting a business, furthering my knowledge of workplace safety and responsibility in handling sensitive information.

So, What Is Market Data?

It is a difficult term to define, but it becomes clearer when put into context. According to ChatGPT, market data is:

“Live streaming of trade-related data.”

In simpler terms, it is real-time information that affects shareholders and investors. This data can come in various forms—statistics, words, or even binary code.

Market data becomes especially important during major global events. For example, the imposed tariffs on other countries by the U.S. led to big market shifts and a spike in demand for reliable information. CJC plays a crucial role by specialising in the systems that distribute market data between providers and consumers, ensuring compliance with regulations in the UK, EU, and the U.S.

It is not just about numbers—it is about managing real-world information that drives markets.

Behind the Scenes with Commercial Management

Once I completed my training, I joined the Commercial Management team with on-the-job training and an explanation of their roles. As part of my work experience, I learned how to manage invoices and use inventory management databases that stored, managed, and allocated invoices. I found the database easy to understand on my first day. With guidance from the team, I was able to manage around six invoices.

The process ensures that invoices are checked and balanced with the correct details and numbers for accurate payments. This experience allowed me to spot the differences between a properly completed invoice from another business and one with issues, such as incorrect dates or ID numbers. I was also taught how to make invoice adjustments, calculate and balance payments, and send invoices to other departments. I also learned how to file invoices correctly in the database.

Working with invoices gave me great insight into how businesses operate and how they manage their financial dealings with each other. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the business world and how it functions but also taught me important tools such as using databases and Excel.

Learning Excel and Reporting

I also had the chance to observe and learn about writing an end-of-year report in Excel, which covered all the changes in contracts with businesses over the year. Before this, I was not very familiar with Excel, but by the end of my time at CJC, I was much more confident using it.

I learned to use basic calculations for adding up invoice numbers and how to use pivot tables. This experience was especially valuable since I had not learned much about Excel at school, so this hands-on practice filled in a gap in my knowledge.

Work experience with CJC provided me with a chance to learn and grow in a positive workspace, introducing me to new and unfamiliar things. It has been a valuable experience with extra context for my studies, particularly Business Studies, and I know this knowledge will come in handy as I move forward.

CJC provided incredible support during my time there, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The environment was great for learning, and the team really helped me get a feel for the work and the business world. While my knowledge of market data is still far from extensive, my time at CJC allowed me to get a solid understanding of the basics. This is something I would not have picked up at school—or if I had spent the week cleaning offices with no air-conditioning (which, let's be honest, would have been the alternative).

Reflections on the Week

As part of my work experience, I was also asked to reflect on everything I had learned. So, I decided to write it all down—this article is the result. It captures the key experiences, skills, and insights I picked up during the week, and how much the placement helped shape my understanding of working life in a professional environment.

CJC provided incredible support throughout the week, and the team created an environment that was welcoming, structured, and genuinely interesting to be part of. I did not just observe—I was trusted to get involved in real work and contribute to the team.

I came in knowing almost nothing about market data or commercial operations. I am leaving with practical skills, real-world knowledge, and a clearer idea of the kinds of careers that might lie ahead. It is an experience I would not have had at school, or if I had spent the week doing something far less engaging, therefore being an important experience in my life and something that everyone should consider doing.