Freshminds recently hosted an event in partnership with Kraft Foods which showcased its graduate programme and provided a unique insight into what a career in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry offers. Attendees had the chance to speak to graduates at various stages of the Kraft scheme and across different areas of the business. Above all, the event gave our guests a feel for the business culture at Kraft Foods and what graduates can expect from the programme, namely ‘exposure, variety, hard work, pace, experience, effort, exhilaration, rewards and fun’.
So, what does the FMCG industry have to offer? It’s a stable, growing sector in constant demand and proving itself very resilient to the recession. Within this industry you will be given the chance to work with and influence some of the biggest brands that are recognised and loved globally. You receive excellent all round business exposure and see real, tangible results from your work. As the name suggests, this industry changes and evolves quickly meaning that it is reliant on innovation making it an exciting and dynamic industry to be part of.
Here are our thoughts on the key competencies graduates need to succeed in the FMCG industry:
Commercial awareness - excellent understanding of the industry and the commercial acumen to inspire new solutions.
Curiosity - innovative and entrepreneurial with the confidence to challenge ideas.
Initiative - proactive and passionate with the drive to set goals and surpass them.
A ‘Hands On’ Attitude - enthusiastic with real drive to get stuck into any given task.
Analytical ability - a logical thinker and problem solver with the ability to find and use all information available.
Adaptability - flexible when faced with new situations such as a change in location, team or task.
Passion for brands -knowledge of the way brands are perceived by target consumers, what makes up their key characteristics and where they sit in comparison to competitor brands.
Kraft Foods is currently accepting applications for its 2013 Graduate programme, so don’t miss out. Visit www.kraftfoodsgraduates.co.uk to apply, or see here for more FMCG roles.
