The Hershey Company Data Analyst Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

The Hershey Company is a globally recognized leader in the confectionery industry, dedicated to creating delicious snacks that bring joy to consumers around the world.

As a Data Analyst at The Hershey Company, you will play a critical role in synthesizing complex data to generate actionable insights that drive business decisions across various products, projects, and programs. Your key responsibilities will include collaborating with diverse teams to analyze and utilize advanced analytics for data processing, creating compelling data visualizations and dashboards, and identifying opportunities for business improvements by understanding the implications of data. You will leverage your proficiency in SQL and experience with data reporting tools to produce actionable reports that guide strategic decision-making for business leaders. Strong problem-solving skills, along with a background in predictive and prescriptive analytics, will be essential to your success in this role.

The ideal candidate for this role will have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Analytics, Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, or a related field, along with a minimum of three years of relevant experience. Your ability to navigate and interpret complex datasets, coupled with a passion for continuous improvement, will align with The Hershey Company's commitment to delivering quality and excellence.

This guide will help you prepare for your interview by providing insights into the role's expectations, the skills that are highly valued, and the types of questions you may encounter, ultimately giving you a competitive edge in the interview process.

The interview process for a Data Analyst role at The Hershey Company is structured to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the organization. It typically consists of several stages designed to evaluate your analytical capabilities, problem-solving skills, and ability to collaborate with diverse teams.

1. Initial Screening

The process begins with an initial screening, which may take place over the phone or via a video call. During this stage, a recruiter will review your resume and qualifications, discussing your background and interest in the role. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the company and the position.

2. Behavioral Interview

Following the initial screening, candidates usually participate in a behavioral interview. This interview is often conducted by the hiring manager or a panel of interviewers. Expect to answer questions that explore your past experiences, particularly focusing on how you have handled challenges, collaborated with teams, and utilized data to drive decision-making. The SOAR (Situation, Obstacle, Action, Result) or STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) techniques may be employed to frame your responses.

3. Technical Assessment

In some cases, candidates may be required to complete a technical assessment. This could involve practical exercises related to data analysis, such as creating visualizations or interpreting data sets. You may also be asked to demonstrate your proficiency in SQL or other relevant tools, showcasing your ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.

4. In-Person or Virtual Interviews

Candidates who successfully navigate the earlier stages may be invited to participate in one or more in-person or virtual interviews. These interviews often involve multiple interviewers and may include a mix of behavioral and technical questions. You might be asked to discuss specific projects you have worked on, your approach to data analysis, and how you have contributed to business improvements in previous roles.

5. Final Interview and Offer

The final stage typically involves a wrap-up interview, where you may meet with senior management or other key stakeholders. This is an opportunity for them to assess your fit within the company culture and your alignment with Hershey's core values. If all goes well, you will receive a job offer shortly after this stage.

As you prepare for your interview, consider the types of questions that may arise during the process, particularly those that focus on your analytical skills and experiences.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Understand the Interview Process

The interview process at The Hershey Company can be extensive, often involving multiple rounds and various interviewers. Be prepared for a combination of behavioral and technical questions, as well as potential assessments of your fit within the company culture. Familiarize yourself with the SOAR (Situation, Obstacle, Action, Result) technique, as many interviewers may use this framework to evaluate your responses.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills

As a Data Analyst, your ability to synthesize complex data is crucial. Be ready to discuss your experience with data visualization tools like Tableau or SAP GRC, and be prepared to provide examples of how you've used analytics to drive business decisions. Highlight specific projects where you identified opportunities for improvement through data analysis, and be ready to explain your thought process and the impact of your work.

Emphasize Collaboration

Collaboration is key at Hershey, as you will be working with diverse teams. Prepare to discuss your experience working in cross-functional teams and how you’ve effectively communicated insights to stakeholders. Share examples of how you’ve navigated challenges in team settings and contributed to collective goals.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect a range of behavioral questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle obstacles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, focusing on specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Be honest and reflective in your answers, as interviewers are looking for authenticity and self-awareness.

Know the Company Culture

Hershey values a positive company culture, so it’s important to demonstrate that you align with their core values. Research the company’s mission and recent initiatives, and be prepared to discuss how your personal values resonate with Hershey’s. Show enthusiasm for the brand and its products, as this can help you connect with your interviewers on a personal level.

Be Ready for Technical Assessments

While the interview may focus on behavioral questions, be prepared for technical assessments that evaluate your analytical skills. Brush up on your knowledge of statistics, probability, and SQL, as these are critical components of the role. Practice solving data-related problems and be ready to explain your reasoning and methodology.

Follow Up Professionally

After your interview, send a thoughtful thank-you email to your interviewers. Express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the position. This not only shows professionalism but also keeps you top of mind as they make their decision.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for the Data Analyst role at The Hershey Company. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Data Analyst interview at The Hershey Company. The interview process will likely focus on your analytical skills, experience with data visualization, and ability to collaborate with diverse teams. Be prepared to discuss your past projects, problem-solving approaches, and how you can contribute to the company's goals.

Data Analysis and Visualization

1. Describe a project where you used data visualization to communicate insights.

This question assesses your ability to effectively present data findings to stakeholders.

How to Answer

Discuss the project context, the tools you used for visualization, and how your insights influenced decision-making.

Example

“In my previous role, I worked on a sales analysis project where I used Tableau to create interactive dashboards. These visualizations highlighted trends in customer purchasing behavior, which led to a 15% increase in targeted marketing efforts.”

2. What tools do you prefer for data analysis and why?

This question evaluates your familiarity with industry-standard tools and your reasoning behind your preferences.

How to Answer

Mention specific tools you have experience with, and explain how they have helped you in your analysis work.

Example

“I primarily use SQL for data extraction and Tableau for visualization. SQL allows me to efficiently query large datasets, while Tableau’s user-friendly interface helps me create compelling visual stories that resonate with stakeholders.”

3. Can you explain a time when your analysis led to a significant business decision?

This question aims to understand the impact of your analytical work on business outcomes.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example, detailing the analysis you conducted and the resulting decision.

Example

“I conducted a profitability analysis for a product line that revealed a 20% margin decline. My findings prompted the management team to adjust pricing strategies, which ultimately restored profitability within three months.”

4. How do you ensure data accuracy and integrity in your analyses?

This question assesses your attention to detail and understanding of data quality.

How to Answer

Discuss the methods you use to validate data and ensure its reliability.

Example

“I implement a multi-step validation process, including cross-referencing data sources and conducting regular audits. Additionally, I use automated scripts to identify anomalies in the data.”

5. Describe your experience with SQL and how you have used it in your previous roles.

This question evaluates your technical skills and experience with SQL.

How to Answer

Share specific examples of how you have utilized SQL in your data analysis tasks.

Example

“I have used SQL extensively to extract and manipulate data from relational databases. For instance, I wrote complex queries to analyze customer behavior, which helped identify key segments for targeted marketing campaigns.”

Behavioral and Situational Questions

1. Tell me about a time you faced a challenge while working on a team project. How did you handle it?

This question assesses your teamwork and problem-solving skills.

How to Answer

Describe the challenge, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome.

Example

“During a cross-departmental project, there was a disagreement on data interpretation. I facilitated a meeting to clarify our findings and encouraged open dialogue, which led to a consensus and a successful project completion.”

2. How do you prioritize your tasks when working on multiple projects?

This question evaluates your time management and organizational skills.

How to Answer

Explain your approach to prioritization and how you manage deadlines.

Example

“I use a combination of project management tools and prioritization frameworks, such as the Eisenhower Matrix, to assess urgency and importance. This helps me focus on high-impact tasks while ensuring all deadlines are met.”

3. Describe a time when you had to present complex data to a non-technical audience.

This question assesses your communication skills and ability to simplify complex information.

How to Answer

Discuss how you tailored your presentation to the audience's level of understanding.

Example

“I once presented a data analysis report to the marketing team. I focused on key insights and used simple visuals to convey complex trends, ensuring everyone understood the implications for our strategy.”

4. What motivates you to work in data analysis?

This question aims to understand your passion for the field and alignment with the company’s values.

How to Answer

Share your enthusiasm for data and how it drives your professional goals.

Example

“I am motivated by the power of data to drive informed decisions. I find it rewarding to uncover insights that can lead to tangible business improvements, especially in a company like Hershey that values innovation.”

5. How do you handle feedback on your analyses or reports?

This question evaluates your receptiveness to feedback and willingness to improve.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to receiving and implementing feedback.

Example

“I view feedback as an opportunity for growth. I actively seek input from colleagues and stakeholders, and I incorporate their suggestions to enhance my analyses and reports for future projects.”