What does a Supply Chain and Customer Service Graduate do?

As a Supply Chain and Customer Service Graduate at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP), I’m part of a 3-year rotational programme designed to give me a deep understanding of how our drinks go from raw materials to complete products in the hands of consumers. CCEP is the bottler behind iconic brands like Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Schweppes, and Monster. We manage the entire supply chain, sourcing ingredients like water and sugar, packaging materials like cans and cardboard, producing the drinks in our factories, and distributing them to customers (think supermarkets, restaurants, airports, etc.).

Right now, I’m based on-site at one of our factories, learning how operations run from the ground up. This hands-on experience helps me understand the complexities of production and the collaboration required across teams — from planning and logistics to customer service and quality assurance. As I progress through the programme, I’ll rotate through different departments to build a well-rounded view of the end-to-end supply chain. Along the way, I’ll also be given small assignments and projects that I can take ownership of, helping me develop my competency and contribute meaningful value to the business.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop both technical knowledge and leadership skills while playing a part in delivering some of the world’s most loved beverages.

Give a description of a day in the life of a Supply Chain and Customer Service Graduate.

Every day is different! I rotate through different departments like QESH (quality, environment, safety and health), manufacturing, and distribution. Most days involve shadowing team members, joining meetings, and getting stuck into a mix of tasks. But the main focus is asking questions, learning how the business works, and building a solid understanding of how everything fits together.

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

Around 5-6 months. I began applying in September 2024, casting a wide net as I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I applied to CCEP in November and went through a thorough selection process over several weeks, including submitting my CV, completing personality and skills assessments, a recorded video interview, and an assessment centre involving a presentation, interview, and group task. The final stage was a site visit to the Wakefield factory, following which I delivered an additional presentation to the GB senior management team. I received my job offer at the end of January.

How did you end up in this job?

Unlike other employers, CCEP use strength-based assessment measures as opposed to competency-based. This places a much greater emphasis on your potential as opposed to your past experience, making it a fairer opportunity for people. I believe I got the job by demonstrating my drive to succeed, warmth and people skills, and genuine curiosity and willingness to learn. But all of us grads are different; we have varied backgrounds and skillsets, which is exactly what makes us a strong cohort. CCEP doesn’t want to recruit just one ‘type’ of person; a strong workforce is a diverse workforce, meaning that all sorts of people have the chance to get a job with us.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The people. Everyone’s warm, helpful and easy to talk to no matter their role. It’s the kind of place where you’ll have a casual chat with someone and only later realise they’re really senior - there’s no rigid hierarchy which makes it feel relaxed and open. On top of that, no two days are the same and we get amazing exposure to some of the best minds in the business.

How long have you been doing your job?

2 months

Has your salary changed since then – if not do you see salary progression?

Not yet, but there’s a pay increase each year of the graduate scheme.

Where do you see yourself in five years time?

Hopefully in a management position within the company! I’m not sure which area I’m most drawn to yet, so I’m looking forward to getting exposure to different parts of the business and seeing what sparks my interest.