Lois' success story: Securing a graduate scheme at Diageo

Lois is a Biomedical Science graduate from Northumbria University. She secured a role on the Supply Chain Graduate Scheme at Diageo, through Bright Network.  

First, please tell us a little bit about yourself. 

“I’ve always wanted to work with consumer goods, seeing products you have worked on, on shelves and seeing people enjoy them in day-to-day life fills me with lots of pride.

I’m particularly drawn to the social aspect of consumer goods. I love seeing friends and family connect over a product they love, and I wanted to be a part of that journey of bringing joy to people through creating new products.

I was always quite academic at school and enjoyed maths and science, so chose to do a Biomedical Science degree to keep as many doors open as possible.”  

What motivated you to apply for the role?  

“I did a placement year at a consumer goods company, which solidified my desire to pursue a career in the consumer goods industry.  

I spent time researching FMCG companies and found Diageo, and I was attracted to how fast moving the products are and how customer focused they are.”  

What are you most proud of about your journey?  

“I am most proud of myself for moving away from home. The Diageo Supply Chain scheme has 3 yearly rotations all in different geographic locations, my first year has been in Leven Scotland but I am about to start my next rotation in Dublin Ireland.

It’s exciting and I feel extremely privileged to get to experience lots of different places and roles and have the opportunity to network with a range of stakeholders from all over the business.”  

What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?  

“My advice would be to research the company values so you can talk about how you align with them during the application process. I’d also recommend being your true self!”  

Tell us about the future. What’s next?  

“I am approaching the end of my first rotation as Governance Improvement Lead for European Spirits based in Leven Scotland, for my next rotation I will be moving from the production environment into brand change and innovation working as a Liquid Technology Specialist for Baileys in Dublin Ireland.

I’m really excited to get into the product development side of the business and see a whole new city and country at the same time.”