What attracted you to apply for Mars?
I was able to learn a little bit about Mars through my university studies, and I was really interested in the opportunity to work for a large FMCG company that aligned with my broader values. I studied Nutrition Sciences and have a strong passion for sustainability and food security so it was really great to hear about all the work that Mars does in both the health and wellness space, as well as in climate and packaging sustainability. I also found the recruitment experience to be super accessible and everyone that I met throughout the process was incredibly friendly, which motivated me to want to work here!
Tell me about the work / projects you have worked on so far?
I currently work in Research and Development (R&D) in the Packaging team for Mars Food. I have had the opportunity to work on a variety of engaging projects, including new product developments, value engineering and packaging sustainability, and work across brands such as Masterfoods, Ben’s Original, Dolmio and Kantong. This usually involves, collaborating cross-functionally with marketing, operations, product development, running factory trials and working with our global team on any packaging changes.
Describe the culture at Mars?
The culture at Mars is driven by the five principles which govern all the decisions that we make. I always feel as though I can be myself at work and have formed many connections in my time here. There is a good work ethic at Mars, and I am constantly being pushed to grow and develop new skills and step out of my comfort zone, which makes coming to work a rewarding experience.
What are some of the benefits of working @ Mars?
Mars has several benefits, including flexible working arrangements, employee assistance programs, additional super contributions, and discounted gym memberships. We also have a lot of access to resources such as “Mars University,” which can help you grow and develop. One of the main highlights for me has been living on the Central Coast of NSW, where our Food factory is based, as I really enjoy the laid back, regional, beach lifestyle.
To you, what are the key values at Mars and how do they align with your own?
The key values at Mars are the Five Principles: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom. A principle that resonates with my own values is freedom, which is especially seen in the decisions that are made throughout the company. As a private company, Mars “thinks in generations,” which allows us to have the freedom to be a purpose-led business. This is seen through the multiple sustainability projects that I have a strong passion for, but also through a variety of associate led initiatives such as wellness committees and associate resource groups that I have enjoyed being a part of.