I joined British Sugar for a year in July 2006 as part of my degree in Mechanical Engineering. On completing the degree, I was offered a graduate position. The deciding factor was the opportunity to work around the world, including Africa, China and Europe. The company was able to offer me the opportunity to work abroad from the very start, only two weeks after my start date.

I am currently working at Illovo Sugar Ltd in various sugar mills in Southern Africa. As I’m in a training role, I spend a lot of time working on the plant, getting to know the processes involved. I’m also involved with different projects around the world, for example a raw refining project in Poland – I’ve been working with a supplier in Johannesburg to find a solution. I’m also working on a boiler replacement programme in the UK.

I have learned so much about the industry in the two months I have been out here. I have a structured training scheme with clear objectives. I spend a period of time in each area followed by a review of what I have learned. I also meet my manager regularly to keep track of my progress and highlight any areas it would be useful to spend some time on.

The most enjoyable part of my job is the people that I work with, from the guys in the boilers at Sezela, South Africa, to the directors back in head office, UK. Everyone is always on hand to give you their help and advice should you need it.

In the short term, I am focussed on completing my training scheme, following a period in Northern China. My longer term interests lie in energy reduction projects and strategies. In fact, part of my role going forward is to help in the reduction of the company’s global carbon footprint; something which I am very passionate about.

The diversity and scale of British Sugar means that it has a unique offering for graduates. You will experience a scheme like no other, giving you the opportunity to work all over the world in very challenging areas. You can take the scheme as far you like and get as much out as you put in.