• How did you end up in this job?

 I started my career in the food industry working Saturdays in my family’s butcher shop. After college, I joined the business full-time and worked there until I was 27. I then joined Pilgrim’s graduate trainee program in operations, where I completed various rotations focusing on operations, planning, and OPEX.

I wanted to broaden my understanding of the wider business beyond operations, which led me to my current opportunity to step up as a Technical Relations Executive. This role allows me to collaborate closely with our factories and customers, explore various parts of the country, and gain valuable knowledge about the food industry beyond operations. The great thing about Pilgrims is the opportunity to learn and grow is everywhere

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

 The food industry offers a wide range of roles and opportunities. If you're open to learning new skills and tackling daily challenges, you can have a really rewarding and varied career with Pilgrims. I have learnt through working in different functions that there is a wide range of people with different skill sets and everyday you can learn something new and grow. My advice to you is to take each opportunity with both hands and stay curious you will be surprised where your career will take you and what you are capable of.

• What’s the best thing about your job?

The best part of my journey so far is building relationships, both internally and externally. I get to work with a diverse range of people who have unique experiences, which gives me the chance to continuously learn and drive change to make an impact on the business. I loved being on a graduate programme because this allows me to connect with other graduates within the business and work together on our career pathways. I regularly communicate with customers and have the opportunity to build strong relationships with our customers to produce great products every day. 

• How long have you been doing your job?

 I joined the business in 2023 and have had various opportunities to work across different functions to help me fast track my career development 

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

Take opportunities as they come and don’t be afraid to take risks. Your working life is long, and you’ll have plenty of chances to explore different paths. Don’t worry too much about choosing the right or wrong path they will all lead you to where your supposed to be. And for me that is the best thing about the food industry.