“Every day presents a new challenge and the opportunity to learn from it”

Aoife Carr, Bord Bia Marketing Fellow in Germany shares, her experience of this unique Masters programme in association with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.

Aoife Carr from Ballinteer in Dublin is currently based in Germany as one of 20 Bord Bia Marketing Fellows representing leading Irish and international food, drink and horticultural brands in overseas markets. The programme, run in conjunction with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, supports the growth of the Irish food, drink and horticultural industry on a global scale, while honing the strategic business development, marketing and professional skills of the participants.

Aoife has always been passionate about the Irish food industry and graduated with a degree in Human Nutrition from UCD in 2015, during which she spent 12 months working with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. She also worked in the marketing of Ireland as a tourist destination, promoting attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells.

As part of the programme, Aoife is based in Dusseldorf, Germany where she is exploring new strategic routes-to-market for a range of Irish farmhouse cheeses, dairy and drinks products.

Speaking about her experience, Aoife said, “The programme has been hugely enjoyable. Living and working abroad, promoting Irish food and experiencing first-hand how well respected our food industry is overseas has been a fantastic experience. It is a great feeling to work together with client companies and to witness their continued growth and success in the German market. On the academic side of things, learning all about strategic marketing, branding and strategic growth for Irish food companies has been really great. However nothing can compare to being in-market, understanding the industry, generating new contacts and pursuing new opportunities for Irish companies. Every day presents a new challenge and the opportunity to learn from it.”

Successful applicants on the Bord Bia Marketing Fellowship programme have their tuition fees fully paid and receive a bursary towards living expenses.

“I would strongly encourage anybody with an interest in the Irish food industry to apply for a place on the Fellowship programme. In addition to graduating at the end of the year with an MSc in International Marketing Practice, the Fellowship offers a great opportunity to travel and work within an international market, while gaining invaluable hands-on experience within the industry. The possibilities which can arise are endless. I think it is fantastic to witness the passion that Irish food producers have for their products, for sustainable food production and for the Irish food industry in general. I think that this genuine passion and pride really sets Irish food apart on the international marketplace”, Aoife said.

"Don’t be afraid to apply - even if you have no experience in the food industry!”

Mark Carter, Bord Bia Marketing Fellow in the UK, shares his experience of this unique Masters programme in association with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School

Mark Carter from Naas in Kildare is currently based in the UK as one of 20 Bord Bia Marketing Fellows representing leading Irish and international food, drink and horticultural brands in overseas markets. The programme, run in conjunction with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, supports the growth of the Irish food, drink and horticultural industry on a global scale, while honing the strategic business development, marketing and business skills of the participants.

Prior to applying for the Fellowship programme, Mark graduated with a degree in Commerce from UCD and then worked for more than two years with Citigroup in Dublin. He is currently based in London and is developing new strategic routes-to-market for a range of Irish food companies producing products such as smoked salmon, traditional cooked ham, flavoured butter, cooking condiments and sauces.

“The Irish food and drink industry is recognised as being one of the best in the world in terms of quality and its people. I was prompted to apply for the programme as I felt it aligned perfectly with my interests in global travel, food and the possibility of every day being different. The future expansion ambitions make for exciting times ahead”, Mark said.

Successful applicants on the Bord Bia Marketing Fellowship programme have their tuition fees fully paid and receive a bursary towards living expenses.

“Moving and working abroad is exciting, but can be challenging in the beginning. Reaching out to the Irish diaspora, whether it be joining GAA teams or networking groups, brings back that sense of community and support that some people may need in this time of transition. I have found that generally Irish people abroad are very supportive of each other and always willing to lend a helping hand. Using this Irish network as a springboard, I would also encourage anyone working abroad to have an open mind by immersing themselves in the cultures and surroundings of their new cities,” he said.

“The Bord Bia Marketing Fellowship is ideal for individuals seeking an exciting opportunity. I would say to anyone considering it not to be afraid to apply, even if you have limited experience in the food industry. Candidates are selected based on those who demonstrate that they are honest, hardworking people who show initiative, are flexible, have a willingness to learn and show a real passion and interest in working with the Irish food and drink industry. The application process is difficult, requiring a lot of work and research, but the reward is really worth it.” he added.

“Truly the best experience of my working life”

Ian Cahill, Bord Bia Marketing Fellow in the Middle East, shares his experience of this unique Masters programme in association with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School

Ian Cahill, from Dromcollogher in Limerick, is currently based in the Middle East as one of 20 Bord Bia Marketing Fellows representing leading Irish and international food, drink and horticultural brands in overseas markets. The programme, run in conjunction with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, supports the growth of the Irish food, drink and horticultural industry on a global scale, while honing the strategic business development, marketing and business skills of the participant.

Ian graduated in 2014 with a degree from the University of Limerick in business studies with a major in Marketing. Following a successful work placement with Ornua (Irish Dairy Board) while completing his undergraduate degree, the organisation immediately hired him and he worked as a supply chain, logistics and customer service coordinator for two years before applying for the Fellowship programme.

Ian is now based in the Middle East where he explores new strategic routes-to-market for a number of Irish food brands including free range/organic eggs, dairy ingredients/consumer goods, cooked meats, fresh pesto’s and fresh cut flowers across the GCC markets.

Speaking about his experience, Ian said, “The most enjoyable aspect so far has been the exposure to high-level managers of organisations and the opportunity to learn from them. This programme puts you in the room with some key decision-makers. It gives you a sense of purpose from the outset. The most surprising thing for me is the value that these companies place on your input. This really makes you feel valued and respected”.

Successful applicants on the Bord Bia Marketing Fellowship programme have their tuition fees fully paid and receive a bursary towards living expenses.

“I saw the Fellowship as the perfect opportunity to propel my career. It is an ideal path for anyone looking for a career change, increased knowledge of the food industry or to develop professional skills in business development, sales, marketing or brand building”, Ian Cahill said.

“I think it is perfectly suited to anyone with the desire to advance their career. It serves as a catalyst for career progression and it really helps you to develop in many areas over a relatively short period. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so grab it with both hands and do not take no for an answer!”, Ian added.