Product Technician Review

I completed a range of projects during my time at PepsiCo. This included some practical things e.g. prototyping new products or concepts, and analytical testing in the laboratory. Outside of this I worked on productivity projects, looking at harmonising the ingredient database to reduce costs throughout the supply chain. I also carried out trend research, using statistics and insights to seed ideas for future innovations. I completed nutritional testing of the portfolio. I also had the opportunity to attend factory trials for a new product launch, this involved carrying out quality checks on the line.

I have gained so many skills thanks to my time at PepsiCo, both subject-specific and transferable. I am now confident using a range of technical equipment such as industrial ovens, heat sealers and particle size analysers. I know a lot about nutritional testing and calculating theoretical nutritionals. I have also learnt how to carry out research, using tools such as Mintel and Trendscope. I have become much more confident in myself. I know how to manage my time and prioritise business-critical needs. I am much better at responding to feedback. One thing I have improved is presentation skills - I am comfortable portraying my ideas to large groups of people.

I was given a significant amount of responsibility - PepsiCo isn't a place where the interns make coffee and do filing! I was given my own projects and expected to make my own decisions related to these. This is great as you are made to feel like a proper employee - an equal. However, you aren't thrown in at the deep end - you have a massive support system and a line manager that you remain close to on your projects. I was reporting to people on projects for the first six months, then entrusted with my own halfway through the year. It's a lot to take on but hugely worth it.

A lot! As a student, you are truly valued and well looked-after. You receive many induction sessions at the beginning of the placement, so you know who people are and how things start. The company is large but the teams are small - this means you have a close-knit support group who can help you. Everyone (even senior directors) is happy to answer any questions that you have! You have a line-manager who is there to support you throughout, and they stay close to your projects and help you prioritise. You also have a buddy, who you can chat to about anything - systems, projects, or just your day! You have a mentor, who is a senior director - they help you with personal and professional development, and can provide another opinion. Finally, there is a dedicated student team, who you can go to with any problems that you have.

The company culture is fantastic - everyone is so positive, friendly, and willing to have a chat. There are lots of incentives e.g. chocolates and vouchers, and prizes when your work has a significant impact! Additionally, everyone likes to have a bit of downtime now and then - there are teams that organise fun activities e.g. when I was at PepsiCo we had "PepFest" - an online festival, and we also had team bonding via a virtual escape room. People work hard and it is fast-paced, but everyone is very understanding. I looked forward to going to work everyday!

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement - I wish I could do it again! I had a great experience and was presented with so many opportunities. I learnt so much and it has been really pivotal for my career moving forward. I've met some great people and networked, and will stay in touch with them in the future. I have gained and developed so many skills - I can't recommend a year in industry enough. In my opinion, PepsiCo offers one of the best placements for students looking to go into the food industry.

Yes

I would make sure that you prepare well. When writing a CV and cover letter, make sure it is specific to the company and tailored to their values - this will make it stand out to the person that is reading it. When you are at an interview, make sure you let your personality shine - the company wants to make sure you fit in with their culture! At the assessment centre, be confident but make sure you listen to others' opinions, and ask questions! There is no such thing as a stupid question. Be confident and have faith - let everything sink in at the beginning and it will soon become familiar. Take as many opportunities as you can and learn about the business - it will benefit you in the future!