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After graduating from university with a degree in Environmental Science, Eleanor joined the Nestlé team as a Supply Chain Apprentice in 2020 so that she could apply what she learnt from her degree in a professional setting.

She completed her apprenticeship in September 2023, and is now working full time as a Local Sourcing Specialist in Nestlé's Technical Procurement team in York.

When I graduated from university, I wasn't 100% sure what I wanted to do. I worked as a shop manager to start with, but didn't feel I was putting my skills to best use. Then Covid hit, and that gave me a push to find a long-term career.

I was interested in supply chain and logistics because of the link with sustainability – ensuring that everything is sourced as sustainably as possible, while also getting the best value.

People often see apprenticeships as an alternative to university, and a route into more practical careers. I enjoyed my degree, and my apprenticeship gave me an opportunity to use what I'd learnt, while continuing to study and gain experience at the same time. There are so many different apprenticeships out there – and I don't think people know about all the different options there are.

Making an impact

During my apprenticeship, I had the opportunity to work across different parts of the supply chain, from ingredient sourcing and packaging to the work that goes on behind the scenes to keep the factory itself up and running – managing equipment like forklift trucks or organising scaffolding for maintenance work.

I worked on some amazing projects. I was part of the supply planning team for KitKat during the switch from foil wrappers to recycled plastic packaging, which was one of the biggest projects the site has ever worked on. We had to ensure everything went smoothly to reduce as much waste as possible.

I loved having real responsibilities and knowing that everything I did was making a difference to the business.

Eleanor Langford
Eleanor Langford

Network of support

From day one at Nestlé, I found myself surrounded by a fantastic support network. You feel like you can ask anyone for help with anything – whether it's professional, studies, or non-work related support. I've built up relationships with people from all parts of the business and have lots of different mentors I look up to.

I was so happy when I was offered a permanent role as a Local Sourcing Specialist. I got to see so many parts of the business during my apprenticeship and sourcing was the area I found most interesting. Today, I get to work with different suppliers, from global firms to local traders based in and around York, and I am in constant communication with the factory teams to make sure they get all the support they need.

The business will always give us opportunities to try different things and learn new skills; I'm hoping to take in as much as possible and to have a long and successful career here.