Christian's tasteful voyage : from Master in Food Systems to assuring Quality Control for Swiss Chocolatier and Nespresso Coffee. Food Safety & Food Quality
The Master in Food Systems is quite an academic and experience-packed adventure. But what happens after graduation?
Christian, which path have you followed after graduation?
Christian Jeantet from Italy: 'After graduating in December 2021, I decided to relocate to Switzerland, near the region in Italy where I lived. I started my first job as a quality coordinator in a Swiss chocolate factory. Subsequently, in October 2023, I embraced a new chapter as a quality assurance specialist at Nestlé Nespresso. Besides classic quality-related activities, my primary tasks revolve around packaging quality, handling claims, planning and taking corrective actions with suppliers.'
Can you apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the MFS Programme in your current role?
‘The systemic approach is immensely beneficial in my current professional role. The ability to look beyond sectors and combine diverse information to find solutions has proven to be a very valuable asset. I continue to apply this approach and skill set, using all my prior expertise to address new challenges in my job.'
“The structure of the master’s programme, based on a systemic approach to the food sector, the emphasis on innovative thinking and entrepreneurship, as well as the many different subjects such as marketing, management, food safety, and more, equipped me with a broad range of skills and knowledge. It also instilled the ability to combine and apply all this knowledge innovatively—a game-changing skill.”
How do you look back to the MFS Programme?
'I consider the Master programme as a pivotal experience.
Having spent my entire life in Italy, the programme offered a unique opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. My cohort included students from all over the world - Europe, Asia and Africa.
The structure of the master’s programme, based on a systemic approach to the food sector, the emphasis on innovative thinking and entrepreneurship, as well as the many different subjects such as marketing, management, food safety, and more, equipped me with a broad range of skills and knowledge.
It also instilled the ability to combine and apply all this knowledge innovatively—a game-changing skill.'
Did you meet the goals you set after graduation?
'Post-graduation, I didn’t have a clear career plan. Most of all, I wanted to find new challenges. As I’m in the early stages of my career, I intend to learn as much as possible. As a young professional in Switzerland I receive a lot of trust. I’m taking on responsibilities that are facilitating my professional and personal growth.’
Would you recommend the Master in Food Systems Programme to other students?
'Absolutely. The experience, the global network, the combination of theoretical understanding with practical application and the exposure to diverse perspectives are truly inspiring. It altered my worldview, prompting even my departure from Italy. It was an enriching adventure.'
Does your employer perceive the added value of your Master in Food Systems education?
'During job interviews, I consistently highlighted the significance of the programme as a crucial element of my education.
The international nature of the programme, showcasing adaptability and exposure to diverse cultures, has been particularly appreciated within a multinational setting like Nestlé.
Other aspects that enhance my value during job interviews are the language skills gained and the entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated through a startup project during the programme.'