What is your role and what does a normal day look like for you?
I am responsible for coordinating milk movements and planning the volume of milk from farms and secondary products to our customers. Additionally, I oversee the management of packaging and ingredient stocks onsite, ensuring that we maintain adequate levels by utilising forecasts and placing orders for necessary items to sustain continuous production without interruptions.
Throughout the day, I focus on effective coordination, proactive planning, and agile problem-solving to optimise operational efficiency and support the seamless functioning of the Pennybridge site. Each day presents unique challenges and opportunities to enhance processes and contribute to overall productivity in dairy production.
What do you enjoy most about your role at Dale Farm
I enjoy the dynamic and fast-paced environment of my role, which presents challenges such as addressing unexpected production issues or delays. This provides opportunities to collaborate with the team, applying creative solutions to maintain smooth operations and overcome obstacles effectively.
How did you get to where you are today?
In 2018, I joined Dale Farm as one of the first participants in the higher-level apprenticeship program and gained experience in various departments. All while I pursued part-time studies at Loughry to earn a Foundation Degree in Food and Drink Manufacture.
After graduating, I transitioned to the role of Relief Production Shift Manager, followed by Graduate Shift Manager. I maintained my part-time studies alongside and completed an Honours Degree in Food and Drink Manufacturing. In December 2022, I transitioned to my current position as Production Planner for the site. I am now nearing the completion of my first year in a three-year journey towards obtaining a Masters Degree in Business for Agri-food & Rural Enterprise.