Company: Pepsi Bottling Group

Position: production manager

Employed: six years

Where did you go to school? What program did you attend?
I graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in chemical engineering.

What drew you to your current field?
During my studies I completed a 16-month work term at another manufacturing company. This internship provided me the opportunity to lead several cross-functional employee teams. The thrill of leading these employees to achieve helped me realize that I did not want to work as a design engineer, but rather in people leadership positions.

How did you find your current position?
Of all the jobs posted at my university's career center, I found the management development program at PBG the most attractive. Not only was it in my chosen industry (manufacturing), but it was a program specifically designed to provide me with the chance to develop as a leader.

Tell us a bit about your responsibilities.
As the production manager I have two main responsibilities. The first is ensuring that we produce the right product for the right cost. The second is ensuring that I am managing and developing talent. I manage a team of four production supervisors and 60 frontline employees and it is my responsibility to ensure that they receive the right coaching and development in order to succeed.

What is the most challenging aspect of your position?
Motivating different personalities in a cross-functional environment.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing my team's hard work and effort turn into tangible results.

What skills have you learned through your work experience?
I have experienced a tremendous growth in my confidence and ability as a leader.

What do you think it takes to be successful in this career?
A passion for results, the confidence to make decisions, and the ability learn from mistakes.

Is there one accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
In January of 2008, I was selected as one of eight people from across North America to participate in a discussion with PBG's CEO about the continued improvement of our management development program.

What are your future career aspirations?
I want to continue to develop as a leader within the PBG system and work in roles with increasing responsibility. Ultimately, I hope to become a VP of manufacturing.

What advice do you have for students looking to land their first job?
Take the time to understand what you are looking for in a job. It will not only help you focus your search but it will also help you make a great impression during your interviews. jp
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