What does a Process Manager do?

I lead a team of technologists to work on new projects, taking new products from an idea in the kitchen to making thousands through the factory on a much larger scale. I also review how the products are processed to ensure they are made to meet food safety regulations, and meet customer expectations, while also providing the business with profitable processes to put back into making more great food.

After you qualified, did it take long to find a job?

As part of my degree based in food where I learned about food safety, consumer behaviour, developing new products and food science I completed a placement in the food industry, and found work experience opportunities to gain more exposure and experience. This meant when I finished my degree, I found a job straight away to start when I finished my exams. I’d highly recommend applying for work experience while studying to support you in the future.

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

I would say go for it! Keep an open mind as there are so many learning opportunities with something for everyone in the industry, be it science, problem solving, hands on working in the factory, engineering, commercial and sales, developing recipes, and reviewing customer trends, or working with and developing people there is so many routes to take.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The variety and unlimited number of opportunities! No two days are ever the same, within the role there are always new challenges and unexpected things happening. The part I enjoy most is the journey with great people across the business, seeing the process of the product starting in a kitchen, to seeing thousands being made and the thrill of seeing customers go to supermarkets and buy them.

If you had the chance to do it all over again, what would you do the same/differently?

I would work with the products all over again to see the success a second time. If I could do it again I would work in more departments to grow more knowledge of the industry and meet more people.