Madalina Brutu

Process Improvement Coordinator, Vitacress Salads

Maddie's story

I like the fact that if I have something to say, there is someone who will listen and consider

How long have you been with Vitacress?

This is more complicated to answer. I have been working in production area through agency for six months, following by four years and six months on permanent contract.

Tell us a bit about your role at Vitacress?

At Vitacress, I have had the chance to work in a few different roles in various departments, all contributing to my current experience.

In September 2018 I was working few days per week through Abacus agency as a factory operative. It was very basic. At that time, I didn’t really have a plan. I just wanted to earn money. A few months later, the production manager recognised I had a good level of English, could see I am a quick learner and enthusiastic, so he introduced me to the technical manager to interview for the quality auditor role which I started in May 2019.

Three years in this role has given me great experience and understanding how the business works. After three years, I decided to move to a Process Improvement role which helps me to progress my career with Vitacress.

People have empathy for other people at Vitacress. So many different cultures at Vitacress, all working together.

What do you like about working for Vitacress?

Vitacress has given me opportunities to grow and develop myself. I am enjoying the daily challenges and objectives achieved.

I like the fact that if I have something to say, there is someone who will listen and consider.

What do you think about the people and the culture?

People have empathy for other people at Vitacress. The last month was difficult for me, as I found out that my health is not as good position as I thought. It was challenging for myself emotionally and the support I have had from the workplace was unbelievably positive and helpful.

So many different cultures can be met at Vitacress, all working together.

The values which are repeated on reunions, written on the boards from the walls are very well known inside of production area. People are nominated for these values when they show ‘outside the box’ behaviours supporting the values. I have been nominated few times for demonstrating appreciation of Vitacress’ visions and values.

Are there any training and development opportunities for people at Vitacress?

Through Vitacress I am currently doing a level 3 Food Technologist apprenticeship, also Health and Safety Champion.

Have you received any support for your development?

Without much detail, YES! More than I would have ever expected.

Sum up Vitacress in three words

Teamwork; Support; Empathy.

What would you say to a new starter?

Vitacress is the place to start from basic and develop yourself!

Other stories

Julie Nilssen-Francis

Raw Material Planner - Procurement, Vitacress Herbs

I started on a Graduate Programme in September 2021, and was meant to stay on the programme for two years rotating across four different parts of the business. However, I was offered a permanent position during my first placement, and ended up moving into an R&D Coordinator position in January 2022.

Leah Mathias-Collins

Group Environment Manager

My main responsibility is the management and delivery of the Vitacress environmental sustainability plan, Second Nature; brand ambassador for environmentally sustainability; leading the net zero Science Based Targets initiative; maintaining awareness of current legislation, emerging issues, international, national and local environmental issues, and manage their implications.

Simon Hues

Production Director, Vitacress Portugal

I have always enjoyed working on the farms with the growers in all geographies, a great team of grounded people. Baby leaf is fast moving and I have a lot going on all the time. This is one of the most intensive forms of outdoor farming, which you get a bit of a buzz from.

Vânia Santos

Supply Chain Planning Manager, Vitacress Portugal

I started working in Vitacress in 2001 in reception and expedition of produce. Back then, we only had the export business. After 2 years, my role was expanded and I also started doing quality control on the reception warehouse.

Nathaniel Wood

Harvest Supervisor – Mullens Farm

I spent 18 months working across various parts of the business within the growing/agronomy teams and on the farms. I worked on projects, many of which focused on our Second Nature priorities as we work towards net zero. For over a year now, I’ve worked at Mullens farm in Wiltshire managing the harvest team and getting involved in as many projects as possible.