Name: Lucy Cottrell
Age: 23
Job title: Brand Manager for Crabbie’s
Company: Halewood Wines & Spirits,
Education: 1st Class Bachelor’s Degree in Advertising, Bournemouth University
Why did you decide to go for a career in food & drink?
Every day is completely different, which is something that I love
I’ve always been extremely passionate about the food and drink industry. It’s an exciting, rewarding and diverse sector that’s constantly evolving. In my spare time, I enjoy exploring local independents that champion top quality, food and drink, and local produce, so landing my first full-time job in the trade was a dream come true.
Explain your job to us in a sentence (or two).
I’m responsible for the UK’s number one selling alcoholic ginger beer, Crabbie’s, and reenergising its appeal with the launch of the newly established Crafty Ginger Collection, which includes a ginger IPA and a brand new Stout.
My day-to-day activities include creating and implementing innovation strategies, developing new products and strengthening the brand’s long term commitment to grassroots rugby, by working with all sponsors to activate in unique ways. I also curate digital content for a number of owned and paid channels, and get out and about meeting all of our different agencies. In addition, I provide support to the sales teams to ensure our new products are available for the trade and consumers to enjoy.
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What does a typical day look like for you?
At Halewood, there’s a huge level of autonomy to get on with your work and put your stamp on something
Every day is completely different, which is something that I love. One day I might be putting together a new strategy, and the next executing it. Of course, other daily tasks involve lots of emails, calls and meetings. I’m also kept busy seeing through new product development, planning and managing campaigns alongside other agencies and reporting back to the wider business.
Halewood is unlike other companies that I’ve worked for previously, as there’s a huge level of autonomy to get on with your work and put your stamp on something, which is extremely motivational and enables the business to achieve more.
Tell us about how you went about applying for your job. What was the process like?
It was quite a unique process, as I was approached by an ex-colleague to join Halewood and work alongside her. Within a week of conversations, I had signed the contract. It was from that moment I knew Halewood was an entrepreneurial, fast-paced company and I would fit in right away!
What’s the best part about working for a food or drink company?
“The pace of the industry is phenomenal, there is always something new and exciting going on, you never get bored and that excites me most. There are also lots of events to plan and awards ceremonies to attend – which is an added bonus.
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And what’s the biggest misconception people have about working in food & drink?
That we’re constantly out drinking and partying. Working hard always comes first, but when I do get the opportunity to socialise, it’s great to meet with customers and other stakeholders.
What advice would you give to other young people looking to get into the food & drink industry?
Your contacts book is one of the most valuable assets you can have
The alcohol industry is extremely competitive and it can often be difficult to get your foot in the door. My advice would be to network and build relationships, as your contacts book is one of the most valuable assets you can have.
What’s your ultimate career dream?
To become a CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) within the drinks industry and get the chance to travel the world.
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