What did you study in college?

Business Management BSc in Queens University Belfast

Why did you choose Musgrave?

I wanted to work within an industry that I had an interest in to ensure I enjoyed my job and found it engaging. Musgrave was a natural fit as my Dad is a retailer with Musgrave, having owned a Mace store in NI since before I was born. This meant that I had an interest in food and retail and knew Musgrave’s values aligned with my own.

What was your role when you joined Musgrave and what did it entail?

I was an operations graduate, working with the seven Musgrave MarketPlace cash and carry’s across ROI. This role was very broad, allowing me to work cross functionally with central teams as well as colleagues on the ground, being involved in a wide variety of initiatives and projects.

What were your first impressions and how easy did you find it to become integrated at Musgrave?

My first impressions were positive thankfully, hence why I am still here, over 4 years later! I was already aware of the kind of company Musgrave was before I even applied so I had an idea that people and relationships were a massive part of the company culture which is why I found it easy to settle in.

What is it like to work in this industry?

Fun and exciting- I love food and innovation and that is a lot of what we do! I am constantly looking out for new ideas or concepts any time I am visiting somewhere new.

Can you describe a typical day in your role?

Most people in Musgrave would probably say there is no such thing as a ‘a typical day’. However, an example might be where I am out visiting stores in the morning planning and working with store managers on set up and execution. Then meeting suppliers in the afternoon to learn about their upcoming promo, in store displays or new products that they can offer to our stores.

What you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy meeting and working with people and having an impact on store operations and sales. My current role offers a lot of variety so it keeps things interesting as I work with more than 40 stores across Northern Ireland.

What have been the main ‘career decision’ milestones in your life so far?

After two years of the graduate programme I had to decide my next venture, a lot of my friends were heading away to travel while others were doing Masters or moving to different companies to try something different. My decision to stay within Musgrave but to try something different is something I have found extremely helpful in my career journey so far as I have been able to build on existing relationships and make the most of the many opportunities available within Musgrave.

How would you rate the development opportunities you have had in Musgrave so far?

I would rate them highly as there are numerous development opportunities available if you are willing to put your hand up for things and become involved. I have availed of multiple development opportunities ranging from training courses to projects to mentoring programmes and the GenRep board I had the opportunity to get involved in.

What advice would you give to someone considering working in Musgrave?

I would advise them to definitely go for it!