Marie’s adventure at St. Paul began with a click on a LinkedIn post and the feeling that everything just fell into place. While searching for a job where her organizational talent and customer focus could truly shine, the vacancy for Purchasing Assistant immediately stood out. “I was looking for something where I could bring structure, but that also allowed for spontaneous turns,” she says. “And in the food sector – because it’s tangible, people really do something with it.”
The First Week
Fresh out of university and full of excitement, Marie walked into St. Paul in early May. And although she jokingly referred to herself as “no cheese expert,” she felt at home right away. “The first week was intense but fun. Hessel took me everywhere, so I got a clear picture of how everything works right from the start. It was a lot to take in, but the colleagues were so warm and welcoming – that truly made all the difference.”
What surprised her the most? “How quickly you really become part of the team. Everyone is involved, the communication is direct and open, and you feel that you matter.”
The Role: Switching with Flavor
As a Purchasing Assistant, Marie works closely with Hessel, the Purchasing Manager, to ensure that everything needed for production – from cheese and herbs to packaging – is in the right place at the right time. “A typical day starts with a cup of tea, checking my emails, and then it’s go time: contacting suppliers, following up on orders, aligning deliveries with production and logistics… No two days are the same.”
What does she enjoy most about her job? “That I get real insight into the entire process. From raw material to final product – I see what happens behind the scenes. And with my background in hospitality, it’s great to have so much contact with people. Every conversation with a supplier brings new insights.”
From Burrata to Balance
When asked which type of cheese best describes her, Marie doesn’t have to think twice: “Burrata! Soft, approachable, and goes with everything! I adapt easily and feel at home in different teams – just like burrata works in so many dishes.”
Marie is enthusiastic, eager to learn, and – in her own words – “quite the perfectionist.” Traits that come in handy in the world of purchasing. “Accuracy is so important – you could easily order 400 kilograms of herbs instead of 400 grams,” she says with a laugh.
Teamwork and Atmosphere
Within the purchasing team, Marie feels completely at home. “There’s a light, positive atmosphere. Everyone is helpful and there’s always room for humor. Even though I haven’t been here long, I really feel like part of the team.”
What makes a workday successful for her? “When I’ve learned something new and feel like I’ve contributed. Every day I learn more about the production process, new products, and the dairy market. That growth is really fulfilling.”
A True Asset to the Team
Before starting at St. Paul, Marie already had an impressive journey. During her studies, she lived and worked in several countries, including Italy and France. “From a young age, I’ve often moved alone for internships or jobs. That taught me a lot about independence and adaptability.”
Her craziest cheese combination? “A slice of bread with chocolate sprinkles and aged cheese. Sounds weird, but… it works!”
With her enthusiasm, eye for detail, and smooth communication skills, Marie is a valuable asset to the St. Paul team. And with her love for tea and talent for structure, she brings a fresh energy to the purchasing department every day.
Would you also like to work at St. Paul? Take a look at our job openings on the vacancies page!