I did the IGD Postgraduate course as part of my company’s graduate training programme. I found that the variety of topics has helped me gain a wider understanding of the different aspects of the industry. As a result I can apply this in my role at NAAFI, in particular when working with people from different functions.  

The Postgraduate course was a useful base in terms of giving me experience in writing and researching. Following on from this I am broadening my horizons further and now studying for a CIPD qualification. Overall, I feel the course has developed my commercial acumen and given me more confidence in the workplace. 

Lisa Kingswell, HR Advisor, NAAFI

As someone who went straight into a retailer management training scheme at the age of 18, I found that the IGD Postgraduate Certificate gave me the confidence on many levels to cogently prepare and execute the tasks in my job role at the time.

In the ten years since, I have been promoted three times and am sure that my experience on the PGCIM has contributed greatly to my progression, business maturity, intellectual horsepower and the increased value of my contribution to my employers.

It is an experience that I consistently refer to in my current role as a main board director of a fast growing and successful drinks business

Chris Milton, Sales Director, Thatchers Cider

For me the key attribute of the course is its credibility and relevance to my day job. The course has given me the confidence to network internally and across the industry. I have also recommended it to several people and one of my colleagues is undertaking the course this year.

National Account Manager, Nestlé UK Ltd

It is a very useful course for anyone wishing to widen their knowledge of this sector of business. It makes you aware of what is needed to help make you a better, more informed employee by broadening your skills base.

National Sales Manager - Tropicana

I chose the IGD Postgraduate course because I was looking for a professional qualification relating to my job. I liked the idea of a one year course and the style of tutorial.

I was unfortunate to get made redundant during my studies. However I did find that working towards the qualification gave me the edge in interviews. Overall I think this is a relevant qualification for people in my position. Many of the modules have helped me develop my role and I have had the chance to meet various people from different roles in the industry.

The course gave me the chance to add depth to subjects of which I had limited knowledge. I always found the tutors accessible and helpful. The awards given at the end were also a great incentive and I found the whole experience very rewarding.

Mark Newton, Senior National Account Manager, Whyte & Mackay Ltd

I chose this course because it was industry related and achievable over one year. It is a great opportunity to learn about aspects of the industry outside your own remit. The format of the course allows you to study at your own pace and the support provided by IGD is excellent.

I feel I have a much greater understanding of the wider industry as well as increased confidence and ability in my job. The course allows you to meet people from different disciplines from all over the industry giving me an invaluable network of contacts.

Completing the course and collecting my prize at the IGD Food Industry Awards significantly raised my profile within my company. Shortly afterwards I was promoted.

Sian Rees, Quality & Food Safety Technologist, McCormick UK Ltd

The content of this course fits exactly what we want for our graduates. We feel it helps grow the individuals in terms of ensuring they have a good understanding of their basic role. We have seen the benefits almost immediately upon commencing the course.

When one of our graduates started she was working under the wing of another Account Manager and now she has applied the learnings to the business environment and is pretty much working independently.

Training Development Manager, Deans Foods Ltd

We chose the IGD Postgraduate Course as it is specifically targeted at the industry. It gives our delegates a large breadth of knowledge about the industry and they can take what they have learned back to the store immediately after each workshop.

Our in-store training programmes are enhanced and supported by the course. Not only is the learning both theoretical and practical but it provides key personal development for the individual. Many of our employees use it as a stepping stone to make the transition from department to branch managers.

Victoria Southgate, Management Trainer, Waitrose

We send our employees on the IGD Postgraduate course because it provides a broad perspective, allowing them to see the industry from another point of view. We have seen a great reaction from those studying the course. Their knowledge of the industry has been widened and they have all translated this well to their working practice.

Field Sales Manager, Weetabix Ltd