Hear from our Students!

Reinier Offereins, Hyde Irish Whiskey, Sales Representative

Through relevant modules, the course sufficiently prepared me to take on various roles during my placement with Hyde Whiskey. Beginning as a sales representative, I was involved in successfully acquiring listings across more than 50 stores that did not previously stock the brand, sourcing a new sales distributor, and attending various whiskey events both nationally and internationally to promote Hyde products. I then progressed to a sales management role where I was involved in managing sections of the daily running of the business, dealing with international clients, and assessing potential new markets and distributors

Peter Cunningham, Clonakilty Blackpudding, European Sales Developer

Working closely alongside marketing, production and logistics departments, I created and executed viable sales opportunities all across the continent, and also secured a relationship with a major meat supplier/wholesaler in the United Arab Emirates, further broadening the reach of the company in new markets. Throughout my time at Clonakilty Blackpudding, I developed key negotiation, management and interpersonal skills vital for a role in sales, and had invaluable insight into the business operations of a large food producer, providing me with the confidence and motivation to pursue a career in the food industry.

Matt Coffey, Richmond Marketing, Sales Developer

I had the opportunity to work with some of the biggest brands in the world and also to develop smaller brands with great potential. The primary responsibilities of my role were building relationships with store management, marketing the key brands that Richmond represent, placing and processing orders and supporting stores with merchandising and display once the stock arrived to store. I was responsible for brand visualisation on the shop floor, and for negotiating with store management to secure shelf space for Richmond brands. Applying course learning in a real-life context provided a whole new level of understanding.

Marykate Moran, Vita Coco New York City, Operations Intern

While working for Vita Coco in New York, I was responsible for supply chain data administration as well as process support across customer operations, supply planning, logistics, and warehousing. This involved tasks such as product pricing management, flagging important shipping containers, file management, and data visualisation to assist decision-making. Completing my placement in a different country with colleagues from all across the world was a great networking experience, and has had great benefits for my personal growth and for both my interpersonal and team skills.

Eimear Hurley, Lidl Dublin, Logistics Intern

Working as a Logistics Intern, I was a part of a management team that oversaw over 120 operatives. Daily duties included managing rotas, pick-plans, and absence, providing me with a hands-on insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of a successful food business. Several modules were very applicable to my role with Lidl, including Global Food Supply Chain and International Retail Marketing. Following placement, I am returning to campus to complete my final year studies with a renewed enthusiasm for a future career in the food industry.

Alison O’Mahony, Dairygold, Quality Intern

My work with the Quality team involved technical work reviewing quality control manuals and ensuring they were up to date with current legislation. This was very interesting, and I gained a greater understanding of how the cooperative works to produce high-quality feed for its members (the farmers). I also had the opportunity to work on projects across the organisation with the HR, Marketing and Communications teams. The flexibility of my role gave me a great insight into what goes on behind the scenes in different departments, and as I engaged with different people and teams at different levels within the organisation, I became more confident and adapted to changing dynamics quickly.