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I am originally from Cologne (Germany) and have Hungarian roots. Before applying to the Graduate Programme, I completed two master’s degrees, one in International Business at Copenhagen Business School and my second in Global Supply Chain Management and Change at Maastricht University. During my studies, I developed a keen interest in the healthcare industry, particularly in understanding the complexities of its supply chains. To gain practical experience, I interned at a Medical Devices company in the Netherlands and wrote both my master’s theses focused on supply chain resilience in collaboration with healthcare companies. It was during this time that I first came into contact with Novo Nordisk for a thesis interview.
Equipped with my theoretical knowledge and industry insights, I applied for the Novo Nordisk Global Procurement Graduate Programme in 2021. As part of the two-year programme, I had two rotations in direct and indirect procurement functions at the company’s headquarters in Denmark, and one abroad rotation at the French production site in Chartres. This summer, I completed the rotational programme and was thrilled to be offered my dream job as a Sustainability Manager in indirect procurement.
Why did you join the Novo Nordisk Graduate Programme?
Over the course of my education, I have had the opportunity to study in six different countries, which has given me a unique perspective on international business practices and cultural differences. My goal has always been to work for an international, purpose-driven company that allows me to rotate between different countries and procurement areas. Additionally, I wanted to be challenged and further develop my professional and personal skills before deciding to specialise in a particular job.
What were the highlights of your time as a graduate?
I had the opportunity to experience a steep learning curve and take on increasing responsibility as I moved from one rotation to another.
One of the highlights of my experience was during my second rotation at the production site in Chartres where I was given the responsibility to prepare the site for a sustainability audit in finance and procurement. This was a challenging task that required me to work closely with colleagues from different departments and develop a deep understanding of the site’s procurement and finance processes.
How did you end up in your current role?
Since applying for the Novo Nordisk Global Procurement Graduate Programme, I have always been interested in working on sustainability-related projects. I firmly believe that procurement, as the direct link to suppliers, is a key driver for every company’s sustainability journey.
Fortunately, during my time in the programme, I had the opportunity to work on two sustainable procurement projects. One project focused on procuring more sustainable materials, while the other focused on establishing a local sustainable procurement programme for the French production site. These experiences allowed me to collaborate closely with the sustainability teams, where global sustainability strategies and targets are developed. I realised that by working in one of the global sustainability teams, I could make an even greater contribution to driving Novo Nordisk’s sustainability agenda.
In my new job, I am now working with procurement teams from around the world, and I am thrilled to be able to build on the skills and network that I acquired during my previous rotations.
How do you feel Novo Nordisk has supported your growth and development?
Throughout my three rotations, I was fortunate to have the support of three host managers who were invested in my development and ensured that I had a balanced mix of operational and strategic responsibilities. This experience allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the procurement value chain across various business units. In my new job, I am now working with procurement teams from around the world, and I am thrilled to be able to build on the skills and network that I acquired during my previous rotations.
Advice to other applicants to the Novo Nordisk Graduate Programme?
Be authentic and clearly articulate your motivation for applying to the programme. It is important to be prepared to face daily challenges and be adaptable to new environments and teams.
If you are selected for the programme, you can look forward to becoming part of a global graduate community and kickstarting an international career.
