This week, Finnebrogue had the privilege of hosting the Institute of Food Science & Technology Student Launchpad (IFST). Seventy food science students from all across Northern Ireland – CAFRE, Ulster University. Queen’s University Belfast – came together to learn about graduate career opportunities in the food industry, meet professionals working in the food sector and gain valuable career insights from industry mentors. The students were also given a tour of the Finnebrogue facilities to see what life is like behind the scenes.
Declan Ferguson, Finnebrogue’s Research, Development & Technical Director – and also former Chair IFST Northern Ireland branch – shared the inspirational Finnebrogue story, while Sarah Hill, Assistant Technical Manager and Megan Steele, Commercial Manager, gave valuable insights into their aspiring career journeys. Melissa Mackey, Head of Talent, provided guidance on how to stand out from the crowd when job hunting for the first time.
Finnebrogue was delighted to welcome Diane Christie, Head of Innovation at Linden Foods, who encapsulated the essence of innovation and its pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of the industry. And Maria Mulhern, Lecturer in Food Science, Ulster University who gave valuable guidance on continuing in academia.
The breakout sessions with industry mentors is where lots of insights and understanding of career opportunities were gained.
Students delved into the intricate realm of food law and regulation with Victoria King, Private Secretary to the Chief Scientific Adviser at the Food Standards Agency.
Fiona Gilchrist, Technical Services Engineer at Leprino Foods, offered invaluable perspectives on the dynamic domains of research and development.
Orlagh Feehan, Nutrition Product Specialist at Danone, along with Andrea Magill, Technical Services Manager at Around Noon, talked passionately about their job roles in nutrition and technical respectively.
Barbara Bray, Food Safety and Nutrition Consultant at Alo Solutions described her role in food safety, and Frances Raeside, Graduate Food Technologist at Marks & Spencer, shared her personal journey, offering inspiration and insights into navigating a career in the food sector and working for a retailer.
If you are interested in talking to Finnebrogue’s HR team about placement or career opportunities, please visit our careers page or contact them at: 028 44619300 or jobs@finnebrogue.com
