Finlay Armstrong

What is your role?

I’m the UK Process Lead based at the Bursom site, implementing SPARK, the cultural change transforming the way we work with our front line teams.

Why did you apply for the Supply Chain placement year at PepsiCo?

I applied during my second year of university after seeing the role on Gradcracker. With a background in manufacturing, PepsiCo’s global presence and recognizable brands made it an ideal place to kick-start my career.

Exciting opportunities during your placement year?

During my placement at the Skelmersdale site, I led a variety of projects, including a major canteen refurbishment, which significantly boosted team morale. We even installed an ice cream machine, which was a highlight during the summer!

What support were you given throughout your student placement year?

My line manager was very supportive throughout my placement year and gave me many opportunities to learn and develop as a project manager. The Skelmersdale site were also very supportive in my applications for the future leadership program and enabled me to have the critical experiences necessary to be successful.

What made you proud to work at PepsiCo?

Walking down the aisles of a shop and seeing PepsiCo’s products on the shelves gives me immense pride. The company’s commitment to its people and sustainability initiatives, like Pep+, SPARK, assures me that PepsiCo is making a positive impact.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is considering a student placement year at PepsiCo?

Chase the opportunities and give 100% when given the chance. I had many opportunities to develop and grow both professionally and personally throughout my placement year through a variety of challenges brought to me by my manager and other site personnel. I never said no to a challenge or opportunity even if I wasn't comfortable at the time as I thought I could learn along the way. As is a saying in my current team, 'we win or we learn'.