Customer Category Manager Review

My role following the apprenticeship involves working collaboratively with customers to ensure they have the most effective range in order to grow the category, and are targeting opportunity areas. I am also involved in merchandising and category initiatives to drive growth. I work collaboratively with internal teams to understand future plans.

During the apprenticeship, I learnt a number of skills through undertaking four different roles across the business, for six months each. This enabled me to understand how a business like Nestlé operates, and how each function within supports the running, and growth of the business. I was also able to apply learnings from study into work.

Whilst undertaking the programme, I enjoyed the opportunity to try different roles to understand what I enjoyed, and wanted to build a career within. I also enjoyed the opportunity to study alongside this, as I was able to combine the two, and use my experiences from work to apply to my studies.

During the programme it was well structured, with the Nestlé Academy supporting us where possible. It could have been better through improving the transparency and organisation of certain aspects around time at University and coming off the scheme into the Workplace, however there was a number of people around the business to support if needed.

During the apprenticeship I received good support throughout from my employer, however as I changed roles this could differ dependent on the team I was a part of. There was a champion in each function however that we could go to with any concerns who gave good support. It could be improved by standardising support slightly.

We received strong support from Sheffield Hallam University when completing the qualifications as all of the lecturers were supportive, and understanding of our programme and supported where possible whilst we were at University. The only thing that could be difficult was getting in touch with lecturers whilst we weren't physically there.

My qualification has set me up with experience, and the required level to be successful at my role and any future career paths I look to pursue. I have been able to apply some of the learnings from my qualification into my day to day work, and vice versa whilst completing.

I am involved in a few extra curricular activities at work such as being a Mental Health First Aider. This gives me an opportunity to be involved in something I am passionate about, whilst benefitting the business. I have also been a charity champion in the past, organising activities to raise money for our corporate charity.

Yes

Nestlé have given me a valuable opportunity to kickstart my career following leaving school. I have gained a recognisable qualification that will allow me to pursue any chosen career path, and have undertaken a number of roles across the business that have enabled me to understand how these work together, and what I enjoy.

The best piece of advice is to truly be yourself. Nestlé is a fantastic, inclusive employer, who celebrates people from all backgrounds and experiences. Be brave, bold and confident where you can and don't be shy about showing off your skill set. Everyone has something to offer, and can make a big difference.