From Classroom to Lab: The Exciting World of R&D Apprenticeships at Mondelēz’s Taste The Future Program

Friday, May 16, 2025

Ollie Sharpe, Research & Development (R&D) Engineering Apprentice

Zeba Zaman, Food Technologist Apprentice

What makes your apprenticeship at Mondelēz fun and exciting?

Ollie: One of the most exciting things about my apprenticeship is the access to pioneering technology and cutting-edge equipment. We have a scaled-down version of a full production factory, which allows us to experiment and produce real Mondelēz products in a controlled environment. I also get hands-on experience with emerging technologies like XR (Extended Reality), which enhances how we design, test, and improve processes. Every day brings a new challenge, and the opportunity to work with such advanced tools makes learning incredibly engaging.

Zeba: My apprenticeship at Mondelēz is exciting because it allows me to work in a field, I’m passionate about—combining science and innovation to make a positive impact on consumers and within the food industry. Beyond my role, I’ve had amazing opportunities to inspire students by sharing my experience with degree apprenticeships and the benefits they offer, and I also enjoy being an advocate for inclusivity through networks like the Race Relations Network and the Neurodiversity Network, helping to raise awareness and drive meaningful conversations in the workplace.

What’s the most impactful project you have worked on in RDQ?

Ollie: One of the most impactful projects I’ve worked on involved making small but meaningful changes to our recipes and processes to improve product quality and efficiency. For example, adjusting ingredient ratios to enhance texture or shelf life might seem like a minor tweak. Still, it can have a huge effect on the final product and customer satisfaction. Another example is optimizing our equipment settings—something as simple as fine-tuning the temperature or mixing speed can lead to better consistency and less waste. These small improvements make production smoother, more sustainable, and cost-effective while ensuring our products maintain their great taste.

Zeba: The most impactful project I’ve worked on in R&D was operating the chocolate depositing equipment and moulding the limited-edition Golden Popcorn Toblerone product. It was an exciting and innovative product, being the first Toblerone made without nougat, which challenged the traditional recipe while maintaining the brand’s signature quality. Contributing to this trial gave me hands-on experience in product development, problem-solving, and understanding consumer trends, making it a standout moment in my apprenticeship.

Why should someone consider joining the R&D Apprenticeship program at MDLZ?

Ollie: The R&D Apprenticeship at Mondelēz offers a rare combination of hands-on experience, technical development, and real-world problem-solving. You get to work with state-of-the-art equipment, contribute to meaningful projects, and be part of an innovative team shaping the future of food production. The program provides a strong support network, exposure to various aspects of the business, and the opportunity to work on projects that make a real difference. If you’re passionate about innovation, technology, and making an impact, this is the perfect place to grow.

Zeba: The R&D apprenticeship program at Mondelēz offers the best of both worlds—gaining up to 4.5 years of industry experience whilst earning a degree, completely debt-free and earning a salary. As an apprentice, you are part of a supportive and collaborative community where you can develop your skills, work on real-world innovations, and receive guidance from experienced professionals. Mondelēz provides a strong network that nurtures growth, making it an ideal place to kick-start a food science and innovation career.