Nestlé Information Technology

Tell me about your career path at Nestlé.

I came to Nestlé in 1999 as a Senior Solutions Analyst. The role was very hands-on—as an individual contributor, my role was to understand the business partners' needs and build solutions in SAP to address them. I was later promoted to a Solutions Manager where I began leading a team, and then a Group Manager in Retail Solutions where I led multiple teams.

When Nestlé transformed its IT function into a shared service across all of Nestlé's operating businesses, I accepted an assignment as a Manager of Process, Integration & Governance—quite the title, but my job was to ensure we continue to deliver a high level of service through our transformation. Now that our transformation is complete, I'm responsible for all functional integrations and driving our vision day to day.

What did you do prior? Did you always want to work in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry (CPG)?

Not necessarily. I started my career in sales within the women's fashion industry. There, I was asked to join an SAP implementation representing our department. At the time, I wasn't fond of the idea. Looking back, the opportunity introduced me to my passion in technology and a skill set necessary to join Nestlé. Once I entered the tech space, there was a lot of crossover between the two industries—selling women's clothing or a case of water presents the same challenges.

I do consider my diverse background valuable. My business experience taught me a lot of skills I still use today, like tailoring my communication for the audience I'm working with. I might communicate the same message to a business stakeholder and a tech provider much differently.

What is it like as a female in senior leadership?

In the past, it was pretty typical to walk into a room where I was the only woman. Today, there are a number of female leaders on the team, including the Head of IT at Nestlé. I am proud we're well represented.

What advice would you tell someone considering a career path in IT?

I would emphasize the importance of building relationships and a vast network. This is important in any job, and the broad network available at Nestlé has undoubtedly helped me be successful in my role(s).

Outside of work, what are you passionate about?

I value quality time with my husband and two daughters. I'm also an avid runner, I travel frequently for work, and getting out for a run is the best way to explore a new city!

Finally, I serve on the board of The Odyssey of the Mind, a global organization that promotes creative and divergent problem solving and thinking for children. I got involved with the organization when my kids started to participate and accepted a leadership role soon after. It teaches kids at all ages to think creatively, quiet negative voices in their heads, and advocate for their ideas and how to present and communicate them effectively. So much of what the organization teaches informs how I do my job and coach my team.

First and foremost – do you prefer Mac or PC?

Mac, Mac, Mac!

What has been your career path leading up to working at Nestlé?

Prior to Nestlé, I started my career path as an Electronics Technician, then as an IT Technician, focusing more on computer networks. When I started college, I joined Nestlé as a GLOBE FICO Testing Trainee for the GLOBE/SAP implementation within the Latin America markets.

What initially attracted you to work at Nestlé?

Exposure to different cultures and the great working environment I always heard about.

What do you enjoy most about working for the company? And/or in your department?

I enjoy the opportunity to work with people from all around the world and learn about their cultures, as well as the opportunity to experience and learn from a variety of business initiatives and projects.

How would you describe the Nestlé culture in 3 words?

Opportunity, challenges, and rewards

You're talking to a stranger on the street – How would you best describe your day-to-day job?

I manage a team of people who support the finance planning & controlling activities for the different Nestlé businesses in North America, like Nespresso, Purina, etc. My team works directly with market end users by supporting them with system developments and regular activities, in addition to working toward global alignment on the IT solutions for Finance that focus on simplification and standardization.

In your opinion, why should an IT professional work at Nestlé instead of someplace else?

The IT department at Nestlé offers a lot of opportunities for IT professionals who appreciate challenges and are willing to explore outside of their comfort zone. The structure in place, including the business end-to-end processes mapping, project management activities, and use of the newest technologies shows how advanced Nestlé is compared to other places.

Working in an enjoyable environment is so important – can you share a little bit about the office location and space where you work?

The office location is walking distance to many restaurants and attractions, as well as easy parking downtown. The work space is clean, calm, and has a great view. I enjoy the environment, as well as the people I work with!

Are you from St. Louis originally?

No, I am originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Tell us about your transition to St. Louis. What do you enjoy most outside of work?

I moved to St. Louis in 2013 from Brazil. I enjoy a lot about St. Louis – two things that come to mind are spending time with my dog and family at Forest Park or local wineries.

What advice would you share with someone considering moving here?

Be open minded and challenge yourself to go outside of your comfort zone. St. Louis is a great place to live, especially for families.

What advice would you share with someone considering an IT job at Nestlé?

Take advantage of the opportunities Nestlé provides and focus on personal and professional development.

What is your favorite part about working at Nestlé?

Nestlé is a company made up of wonderfully talented people that fosters a culture of learning, continuous improvement, and endless opportunity. If you are willing to spread your wings, work hard, and manage your career proactively, you can literally work anywhere in the Nestlé World.

What has been your career path up to this point?

My career started in Solon, OH as a Programmer Analyst in 1986. In 1991, I accepted an opportunity in Gaffney, SC to manage the Data Center, Telephony Systems and Computer Networks. In 1995, I moved back to Solon, OH to manage the Integration of our Ice Cream Business Systems into the Nestlé Frozen, Refrigerated Ice Cream Company. In 1998, I did what many of us old timers did back then: start preparing for Y2K! After Y2K, I managed our Manufacturing Systems Group in Solon, OH until joining the Nestlé USA (NUSA) Local Globe Organization GLOBE Project in 2005. After five years of implementing GLOBE for Nestlé USA, I joined the Regional Business Solutions (RBS) Team in 2010 managing the Engineering, Safety, Health and Environmental Systems/Processes. Today, I'm a Market Account Executive within our IT organization.

What has been the most interesting project you have worked on in recent years?

By far, the GLOBE project has been the most interesting, frustrating, stretching, and rewarding project of my career. The opportunity to visit so many Nestlé locations in North America, Central, and South America while meeting people from different cultures has been an invaluable experience for me. Often times, we go around with blind folds on, but if you are willing to be a little adventurous, take some risks, and remove those blind folds, there is so much to learn and experience in the Nestlé world.

What skills have you gained in your IT roles with Nestlé?

SAP experience is the obvious one. But more importantly, how to interact with people from different cultures from different areas of the business (internal and external) in order to deliver business benefits and competitive advantage.

What advice would you give a new hire just beginning their career here?

Flap your wings and fly. Don't be afraid to explore, try new things, and build your networks. Nestlé is a company full of opportunity, but it won't find you until you find it. Take charge of your career from the onset and you won't be disappointed.

You've been with the company for a while – why have you continued to stay?

It's not uncommon to see people with 20, 30, or 40 years of tenure within Nestlé. We're a company that cares about its people, emphasizes work-life balance, has competitive pay and benefits, and we offer endless opportunities for those willing to explore outside their comfort zone. I can't imagine working anywhere else."

Being in IT, do you have a favorite app or technology? If so, what?

Mobile has charged our lives and we've only scratched the surface. Favorites today will be gone and replaced tomorrow. So I don't get too excited about the now, rather the future – what doesn't yet exist.

First and foremost – do you prefer Mac or PC?

I prefer Windows PC, but IOS Mobiles.

What has been your career path leading up to working at Nestlé?

I started my career at a very small data center, which provided me with the opportunity to learn about computers, internet, links, servers, network, etc. From there, I moved to a larger company in the IT department responsible for its network administration and end user support, and later worked at a small IT support company as an IT Training Coordinator responsible for the training, teachers, and material used for the IT classes as an exchange student for a year focusing on improving my English. When I returned to Brazil, I joined Nestlé as contractor for the Exchange Team, working on a project created to consolidate the domain controllers and exchange servers for American markets and was then hired as a Nestlé employee to support the consolidation and transition of service desks to a support center team. From there, I held roles on the Client Management team, Field Services, and in 2016, I moved to St. Louis to join the Follow the Sun Incident Management team responsible for global and regional major incidents and crisis management.

What initially attracted you to work at Nestlé?

I had always dreamed of working for a large company like Nestlé with technology where process and methodologies are well established. It also offers a very competitive salary and benefits compared to others in the industry.

What do you enjoy most about working for the company? And/or in your department?

I love the fact that Nestlé is a large organization and something is always changing. There are endless opportunities to learn something new or grow within the company, team, or current role. There is no boring day because of the constant challenges.

How would you describe the Nestlé culture in 3 words?

Continuous improvement, open environment, and opportunity

You're talking to a stranger on the street – How would you best describe your day-to-day job?

In IT Crisis Management, you never have a boring day because there is always something happening around the world.

In your opinion, why should an IT professional work at Nestlé instead of someplace else?

Nestlé offers unique development opportunities through training, relationships, and experience, so it is a great place to grow your career.

Working in an enjoyable environment is so important – can you share a little bit about the office location and space where you work?

Our office has an open-space layout allowing people to collaborate with each other frequently. The dress code is also supper flexible, which is great. Campus offers great perks like a large Nestlé Store, gym, and since it's located downtown near the Arch, there are great views, and plenty of great spots for lunch or dinner after work.

You moved to St. Louis to work for Nestlé. What do you appreciate most about the city?

I love the fact that St. Louis offers all or most of the resources a big city does without being so crowded. The traffic is reasonable depending on where you live, which provides a better quality of life because you're not spending so much time in traffic or in a commute.

What advice would you share with someone considering moving here?

COME! This is a great place to grow your family, enjoy the parks and concerts, very good restaurant options, great schools, hospitals, and universities.

What advice would you share with someone considering an IT job at Nestlé?

Depending on what you prefer to do, Nestlé has an area that fits your profile. Make sure you do a good job in all the work you do, and good things will happen to you.

Anything else?

IT at Nestlé is part of a global team we call "GLOBE", so you have the chance to travel to different countries and places for trainings or projects, and it also allows you to have an international career if this is something you would like to consider.

First and foremost – do you prefer Mac or PC?

Definitely PC

What has been your career path leading up to working at Nestlé?

I started at one of Nestlé's operating businesses, Nestlé Purina, as a contractor at the Service Desk, and later became a Super Author on the DNA project and a Role Coordinator. I then transitioned over to Nestlé GLOBE and currently work as a Senior Specialist of Change and Release. Before becoming a contractor, I was a teacher at a daycare during the morning and then in the afternoon/evening I ran an after-school program.

What initially attracted you to work at Nestlé?

Growing up in the St. Louis area, I have always seen the checkerboard sign on the Nestlé Purina building and viewed it as a St. Louis symbol like the Arch, brewery and Forest Park. When I initially heard about the opportunity at Nestlé, I was thrilled. I researched more about the company and quickly learned about their commitment to the community; I was determined to work at Nestlé.

What do you enjoy most about working for the company? And/or in your department?

I love the culture here. In my department, I enjoy seeing the progression of the teams as processes change. Processes are always changing and it's interesting to see how the teams adapt to these changes.

How would you describe the Nestlé culture in 3 words?

• Passionate – we are passionate about both the work we do and the communities we work in
• Family – at Nestlé, you feel like one big family
• Generous – throughout the year, we strive to help others with our time and money through various outreach opportunities and community service activities

You're talking to a stranger on the street – How would you best describe your day-to-day job?

I review IT changes to ensure they are properly planned, documented, approved and communicated. I also provide coaching, reporting, and auditing to focus on compliance with the change process.

In your opinion, why should an IT professional work at Nestlé instead of someplace else?

With the strong values and sense of community at Nestlé, why would you want to work anywhere else?

Working in an enjoyable environment is so important – can you share a little bit about the office location and space where you work?

Our building on Broadway in downtown St. Louis provides an open atmosphere to facilitate an environment of sharing and collaboration. At this location, we are in the heart of downtown which allows us the opportunity to spend lunch walking around near the Arch or Kiener Plaza, visiting local food trucks, or listening to music at the events planned in the area.

Are you from St. Louis originally?

Yes, I was born and raised in the St. Louis area.

What do you enjoy most outside of work?

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family. We enjoy all of the great activities and events St. Louis offers.

What advice would you share with someone considering moving here?

Check out the different neighborhoods in St. Louis as they all have something different to offer. Take advantage of all of the free events that are open to the entire community.

What advice would you share with someone considering an IT job at Nestlé?

Don't wait, hurry and apply. Nestlé is a company with strong values, commitments, community, and employees. It's a great place to work. If given the opportunity to work at Nestlé, immerse yourself in the culture and become part of our family.

First and foremost – do you prefer Mac or PC?

PC.

What has been your career path leading up to working at Nestlé?

I started with Nestlé straight out of college in 1999. I was looking at Minneapolis' classified ads and saw a job with Nestlé – I applied for the laboratory job expecting to help make chocolate, but it ended up being the infant formula facility! Nestlé candy bars were still discounted in the company store, so it was a good compromise. I have moved around to many factories and locations since that time, and I have been settled in St. Louis since 2013.

What initially attracted you to work at Nestlé?

Well, I thought I was going to make chocolate!

What do you enjoy most about working for the company? And/or in your department?

I love the opportunity to connect with the different business units and markets. The company becomes a large extended family. Although I have changed locations and positions quite a few times in my career, I still run into people I met in the start of my career, and they have also moved into different career paths throughout the years as well.

How would you describe the Nestlé culture in 3 words?

Full of opportunities!

You're talking to a stranger on the street – How would you best describe your day-to-day job?

Our goal is to simplify people's jobs in the factories and ensure they are compliant with IT tools. Thus, their attention can be focused on making quality product instead of IT issues and paperwork.

In your opinion, why should an IT professional work at Nestlé instead of someplace else?

As there are so many different aspects of a large company like Nestlé, the opportunities to learn and grow within the company are boundless. Whether you are interested in learning about different business units or seeing different countries, there are ways to enhance your knowledge and experience throughout the larger business.

Working in an enjoyable environment is so important – can you share a little bit about the office location and space where you work?

Our office space is open concept with very few traditional offices; the desks are located close to each other, which takes a bit of getting used to at first. There is a lot of light and it is a very collaborative environment to work in. As our building is in the heart of downtown, it is nice to be able to get out and take walks down by the Arch for breaks away from your desk.

Are you from St. Louis originally? If not, where did you move from?

We moved to the St. Louis area from Wisconsin.

Tell us about your transition to St. Louis. What do you enjoy most outside of work?

People in the St. Louis area are very friendly. We met our neighbors quickly and we were instantly invited to be involved in neighborhood activities within the same month of our move. My favorite part of Missouri has been the State, County, and City Parks. There are so many different parks with their own unique reason for existing. The State Parks are free and there is one only a mile down the road from our house. Being from a smaller populated area, it is nice to have all the greenspace to visit.

What advice would you share with someone considering moving here?

Don't listen to the local news for the first month or so when you move. The news likes to sensationalize stories and highlights the worst of the city.

What advice would you share with someone considering an IT job at Nestlé?

Give it a shot – you never know where the future might take you!

First and foremost – do you prefer Mac or PC?

PC, but I am an iPhone/iPad person when it comes to phones and tablets!

What has been your career path leading up to working at Nestlé?

In 2004, I joined a company collaborating with Nestlé, and after three years, I knew that is where I wanted to build my career. In late 2007, there was an opportunity to join Nestlé as a Project Manager and I applied for it. Nestlé saw my potential and invested in me. The career of a Project Manager is always exciting; every project is different and you have the opportunity to interact with different people and areas of the company. Over the years, Nestlé has provided me the opportunity to manage different projects, each with a different level of complexity.

What initially attracted you to work at Nestlé?

The company values and purpose. I instantly connected to it.

What do you enjoy most about working for the company? And/or in your department?

The diversity. Nestlé is a Swiss company, yes, but at the same time, it is all other nationalities, filled with great professionals from all around the world. It is a pleasure to be part of this multi-cultural environment.

How would you describe the Nestlé culture in 3 words?

Respectful, engaging, and reliable.

You're talking to a stranger on the street – How would you best describe your day-to-day job?

I lead a project team to deliver on an agreed-upon scope according to plan, budget, time, and quality, while integrating the various pieces of the project and communicating with our stakeholders to remain in alignment. My day-to-day involves interacting with various people in the organization, including my project team, stakeholders, and project sponsors. My ultimate goal is to ensure the result of my project adds value to the organization by attaining to the business case and company needs.

In your opinion, why should an IT professional work at Nestlé instead of someplace else?

Nestlé is a great place to work, no doubt! We are also the largest food company in the world, which means our IT team is sizable in its complexity. We collaborate with the best IT companies to provide top-tier infrastructure and systems. We have the opportunity to work on both small and large-scale initiatives, with cutting-edge technology and even influence the company roadmap to meet the technology needs of a large company such as Nestlé.

Working in an enjoyable environment is so important – can you share a little bit about the office location and space where you work?

Our office on Broadway in downtown St. Louis is close to many restaurants and hotels. We have parking just across the street; very convenient. Depending on which floor you are and what side of the building, you will be privileged to have an amazing view of the Arch, the old courthouse, Busch Stadium, or the Mississippi River. Our floors have been renovated to be modern and with an open concept feel, encouraging collaboration among employees. We have enough meeting spaces for private or larger-group discussions, including technology to connect audio and video with other Nestlé locations. Every floor has a kitchen and lunch area, which makes it handy for heating up homemade food and eating together with your colleagues. And, we have Nestlé coffee (Nescafé and Nespresso) – an important element of my day!

Are you from St. Louis originally?

I am not from St. Louis. I am Brazilian, born in the countryside of Sao Paulo state.

Tell us about your transition to St. Louis. What do you enjoy most outside of work?

Our transition was very smooth. The St. Louis area is very welcoming and it is easy to adjust. Here we have great schools, colleges, shops, museums, parks, events, and attractions all year round. My family and I love to participate in various events happening around town, each season of the year brings something exciting to do.

What advice would you share with someone considering moving here?

I could share more reasons I think it is amazing and why I like it here, but we are all different and that is the beauty of it. Nevertheless, St. Louis is worth a try – experience it yourself and make your own opinion, I don't think you'll regret it.

What advice would you share with someone considering an IT job at Nestlé?

Go for it! Nestlé encourages and provides you tools to continually develop as a professional, and you have the chance to be part of a globalized IT department.

The amplitude of the work we do goes beyond technology itself; we connect our businesses internally and externally with our customers and consumers. We are part of something bigger. We aim to be best-in-class IT partners for our own company; never anything less than that.

First and foremost – do you prefer Mac or PC?

I work with PCs and am happy with it. I prefer a Mac, if given the choice though.

What do you enjoy most about working for the company? And/or in your department?

I have a terrific boss and great support from a mentor. Their time and attention go a long way in assuring that I am successful.

How would you describe the Nestlé culture in 3 words?

Respectful, Structured, Intentional

You're talking to a stranger on the street—How would you best describe your day-to-day job?

I have the opportunity to plan the workload and serve on various project committees within Nestlé. It requires me to interact with many different members of the organization, from technical team members to business partners. One common denominator is every team member has been respectful and has a genuine interest to be helpful.

In your opinion, why should an IT professional work at Nestlé instead of someplace else?

From an achievement perspective, Nestlé is the world's largest food and beverage company, so your work really does impact millions of people. From a business/technical environment perspective, Nestlé is also in direct competition with a world that can literally spin a new product from conception to completion in a couple of months. This provides an opportunity for someone who has worked in such a space to take that energy and apply it to a segment of a large organization. In terms of new technologies, this is an ideal time to join Nestlé. The company is actively pursuing unique, agile opportunities in cloud services, APIs, and the digital space. Moreover, you have a large, diverse market to serve, including both large companies, such as Nestlé USA and Nestlé Waters, as well as startups that have recently joined the Nestlé Family.

Tell us about your transition moving to St. Louis. What do you enjoy most outside of work?

I came to St. Louis from Chicago—it's different than Chicago or D.C., and I am still learning some local customs. I think the news can shed a negative light on the city, but I've found the reality of living here to be different than what you hear. My family and I love going to various parks and enjoying the outdoors. There are a lot of activities for families, which we appreciate. It is a great place to raise a family.

What advice would you share with someone considering an IT job at Nestlé?

Nestlé is like a traveling to a foreign city. It will take time to figure things out, but be willing to explore and observe. Eventually, the different parts will begin to make sense. Also, seek out guides/mentors to help you understand how the company works.