Putting my degree into action

Robyn joined the Graduate programme having completed a Masters degree in Chemical and Process Engineering at the Strathclyde University.

She saw it as an exciting opportunity to extend and apply the skills she had developed at university.

“I completed an eight-week internship at the company’s Dufftown site during my penultimate summer at university and clicked straight away with the company’s values.

It was a really friendly working environment and everyone seemed really proud of what they did,” says Robyn.

Keen to stay with us after graduating

Robyn was keen to stay at William Grant & Sons at the end of her traineeship and applied for the Graduate Programme the following year. 

“The recruitment process is unlike any other I’ve come across. We had the opportunity to visit all three sites in Scotland and, although there were challenging moments, I had fun throughout.

“I was delighted when I found out I’d been successful and was excited to start work in a role where I would gain exposure to the practical elements of my degree.” 

Support and encouragement

Robyn’s first year was spent in the project team in Dufftown and involved working on the expansion of our Glenfiddich Distillery.

“This was a great way to kick-start my career,” she adds. “I was one of three people to lay the last stone on the new Stillhouse, a highlight that’ll stay with me throughout my career.”

Her second year placement is in a continuous improvement role in our Girvan distillery’s Maintenance Team, gaining an understanding of how the maintenance function works within the business.

“I get to manage my own projects, which is developing my managerial and leadership skills. This will hopefully stand me in good stead for any future roles within the company.”

"We’re given responsibility from day one as the company believes in self-development, although we are fully supported throughout.”

Mentoring for our graduates

As part of the graduate programme, all graduates are appointed a mentor who provides support and encouragement.

“Having someone there to help guide me throughout my graduate journey is invaluable. There’s also a fantastic network of past and present graduates to call on for help or advice.”

Taking part in activities away from work

Like many of our graduates, Robyn also takes part in our many activities away from work.

“The Dufftown site hosts multiple events throughout the year and I attended the Glenfiddich Festival Experiment for bartenders around the world. It’s really great to see people getting enjoyment out of what we do.”

“I also recently took part in an event to encourage local school children to study science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects at school. 

“We arranged a practical experiment to engage the children, which was very successful. I like the fact the company is supportive of initiatives to support local communities.” 

Stimulating, dynamic, engaging and rewarding

Robyn’s two years into the three-year Graduate Programme and is making the most of every opportunity.

“I’m having the most amazing experience and been given opportunities to make a real difference in the business. The programme really is an experience like no other. 

“I take great pride in working for one of the leaders in the spirits industry with an amazing portfolio of brands. It’s great to be involved in such a dynamic and innovative company. The family feel is embedded in the company, which also makes it feel quite special.“

If you’re looking for a stimulating, dynamic, engaging and rewarding programme, then you’ll find it here."