 |
Ph.D Chemistry
University of Bristol |
Commercialisation Development Technologist
"Tasting chocolate in the line of duty – it’s a hard job but somebody’s got to do it!"
"I joined Cadbury eight months ago, based in the Chocolate Centre of Excellence in Bournville, Birmingham. This centre focuses on product development for Britain and Ireland. I chose this role as it utilised my scientific background, but also enabled my commercial awareness to develop. My role has been an exciting blend of activities. In the space of a few weeks I became the Science & Technology lead for perhaps the most high profile project from S&T in the last year; the hugely successful re-launch of Wispa. Firstly, I was tasked with developing detailed specifications to ensure that we delivered an excellent quality product, particularly in terms of texture and appearance. I had to make certain that the requirements that I was putting in place were attainable, and gain the buy-in and co-operation from Manufacturing. This was a great chance to forge my first links with Supply Chain. During first production we encountered several teething problems. I worked together with engineers and operators to overcome these difficulties. The success of our project was further cemented by the team being given an award for bringing Wispa back with excellence. This was a most satisfying end to the project.
"My first few months involved regular trips to Poland to conduct production trials in our Warsaw factory. It was a real opportunity to hit the ground running and gain valuable knowledge from experienced members of Science & Technology. I definitely felt that I was doing a “real” job from Day 1 and that my input was valued. The project involved colleagues from purchasing, quality, supply chain, sensory, project management, packaging and third parties in the UK and in Poland. It was a great project to gain cross-functional experience, and exposure to our other business units.
"The initial settling in period was interspersed with inductions, and training sessions. One of the most enjoyable was a 2 day introduction to chocolate course. This finished with a practical workshop where our creativity was unleashed and we had the chance to create a multitude of chocolate prototypes. Apart from the primary training, there have been opportunities throughout my time here to develop other skills through courses such as project management and technical database training. I am also half way through sensory testing to become an expert chocolate taster! Tasting chocolate in the line of duty – it’s a hard job but somebody’s got to do it!
"I am currently leading a major commercialisation project for our moulded chocolate bars. This has involved researching ingredients, suppliers, equipment and our plant processes. I have worked closely with our Supply Chain colleagues and spent a significant period of time familiarising myself with our plant equipment and processes. The project has given me the chance to manage personnel and put the project management course I went on into practice. It is proving to be a great challenge. The next few months are going to be hard work but I’m glad that I’ve been given the opportunity so early on in my Cadbury career to potentially make a significant impact on a high profile and important project.
"Throughout my time here I’ve had regular meetings with my line manager who has always been on hand for any queries I have, no matter how big or small. It’s comforting to know that there is support available if I need it. The feedback I have received from my manager and colleagues has also been tremendously valuable. The range of projects and type of work I’ve been involved in has exceeded my expectations. The range of work that I’ve done is fantastic. One minute I could be designing and making up chocolate prototypes, the next I could be offering process solutions in our factory in Warsaw. I did not expect chocolate to be so complex; however I’m looking forward to wherever the flow of chocolate takes me next!"