Working, studying, and feeling valued at Cloetta

My journey at Cloetta started one and a half years ago, and what a journey it has been so far! In this short time I have been with the company I have worked intensively with two factories, both of which have welcomed me with open arms and have granted me invaluable learning and development opportunities while moving towards completing my studies.

About combining working and studying 

About a year ago, after finishing my bachelor’s thesis at Cloetta, I started my pre-master course in International Business as preparation for my master’s degree. Simultaneously, I started my professional career at Cloetta, which I have been combining ever since. For me, the most valuable aspect of combining the two is that I am learning to apply the theoretical knowledge from my studies in practice while I’m learning about it and get practical experience as to how an international business really works. This helps me grasp the subjects I’m studying much better and quicker.

What helps me successfully balance these two worlds is the freedom and trust I receive from my colleagues in planning and executing my work and the flexibility and consideration they show towards my academic deadlines. For example, a couple of weeks ago, on a work trip to our factory in Sweden, I was able to do my remote exams from the factory. I’m also often able to plan a few free days in during exam periods or whenever I feel I need this for my studies. If it weren’t for the support from my team, this story would have been very different. :)

About working at Cloetta

Looking back, the first thing that comes to mind when being asked how I have experienced working at Cloetta, is that I feel valued. When I say ‘being valued’ I do not just mean getting compliments for a job well done; in my opinion, it’s much broader than that. It means getting the opportunity to try out new things or work out new ideas, receiving additional training to develop your skills, exploring personal development opportunities, and receiving support from your colleagues. As someone who has only just started her professional career at Cloetta, I can vouch for having experienced all the things mentioned above… and more! This ‘more’ category contains, among other things, the very exciting and educational work trips to our factories in Ireland, Sweden, and Slovakia these past few months. 

However, what I appreciate the most about working at Cloetta is that you are valued by your skills and personality rather than simply by age or experience. I was given a chance to prove myself in a challenging role within a discipline I am passionate about, despite the fact that I didn’t have a ton of relevant work experience upon completing my bachelor’s studies. For this, I am incredibly grateful. 

Altogether, working at Cloetta was and will continue to be an enrichment to my studies and my personal and professional development. I am proud to say I work for this company, and with excitement, I look forward to what’s to come…

Estelle Kranenbroek - Group Operational Excellence Coordinator