Rob
Senior Category Development Manager, Nestlé UK
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I wanted to work in a multinational organisation that had international opportunities, and successful brands. I chose the Fast Moving Consumer Goods Sector because of its high profile – everyone is a consumer and we consume FMCG products daily.
Nestlß stood out head and shoulders for me, and after meeting some of the managers in the organisation I reached my decision. As the largest food company in the world, they certainly fitted the bill for me. I was impressed with their candid description of the role and their high expectations. Here, I've found you get a depth and breadth of experience very quickly, which builds commercial acumen that can be transferred to other sectors.
Your initial training here includes a general overview of commercial competencies needed, such as skills in negotiation, brand management and commercial finance. However, as you progress through your career the training is targeted to your specific needs. Development is encouraged through project-based work, line manager coaching or by being promoted into roles that are designed to stretch you as an individual.
I'm now responsible for Nestlß Confectionery's Biscuit, Homestock and Sharing portfolio. This includes brands like Kit Kat, Aero and Milky Bar. It's my role to set the strategic direction of these categories and develop initiatives that will excite our customers.
My career highs so far have included being involved in a Kit Kat project for which we attempted to get the whole of the UK to take a break at 3pm on a certain day. This involved working with agencies to devise TV adverts, press and PR campaigns and an on-pack promotion. I'm also proud to have been appointed as the youngest ever Head of Field Sales with direct responsibility for 75 Sales Representatives and Managers.
Rob graduated from The University of Newcastle with a BA (Hons) in Business Studies.
