• What does an Operational Apprentice do?

An Operational Apprenticeship at Mars Petcare UK is a very rewarding scheme and gives me the opportunity to gain a broader knowledge of the support functions that go into food production. I typically split my time between my academic learning, my workplace shadowing out in the factory and various meetings and presentations that help the factory run efficiently and safely. This apprenticeship provides a strong baseline of Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours for a Skilled Operator to progress in their desired pathway, working towards their dream job!

• How did you end up in this job?

I decided to join this Apprenticeship Scheme in 2023 as it gave me an opportunity to learn an ever-changing job role, while gaining industry recognised qualifications at the same time. I really didn’t know what career path I wanted to take for years after I finished college, so I wanted an apprenticeship that has various routes for progression that I could choose from.

• What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing this career?

Working at a large company like Mars can be very advantageous for a motivated individual, as there is a lot of support for those who seek it, especially to a younger person who is new to the working world. Also, for those who want to travel the world while working can benefit from working for a Global Company as there are numerous positions popping up in different countries which can be applied for and supported throughout.

• Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

In 5 years time, I would like to potentially progress into a Continuous Improvement Team as this is an area I have recently learned on my course which interests me and would still allow me to collaborate with a variety of teams over different areas of the plant. Thinking about my longer-term goals, I like the idea of progressing into a Management Position and have the chance to lead a team or even an entire shift as I would like to develop my leadership skills.

• If you could give your 16-year-old self some career advice, what would it be?

If I could reverse time, I would tell myself to apply for an Apprenticeship much sooner, as I knew then that a University Course was not the right fit for me, and I wasn’t aware I had another option than full-time work. I needed a hands-on approach for my learning style, which is where I benefit from an Apprenticeship in a supporting atmosphere like Mars. Also, not to be afraid to ‘jump in at the deep end’ or put myself in situations that aren’t comfortable to begin with as this is where I found I have grown the most!