Dale Cuthbertson

Graduate

My journey so far

I joined the pgms graduate scheme after studying an MEng in chemical engineering  at the University of Strathclyde. In my first year I was in a continuous improvement role within Chemical Products where I was involved with the commissioning of a new palladium salts plant. In my second year I joined Noble Metals Royston where I was seconded to a shift supervisor role in the Fine Wire production department. During my second year I also worked on a product profitability model.

The company's high expectations were clear from the start 
and I was encouraged to get involved in many projects. I was given responsibility for various projects/people/departments from day one. The most surprising aspect was how much my mentors focused on personal development, which is a big part of the graduate scheme. My projects in both years were completely tailored, not only to allow me to develop my skills, but to challenge me and push the boundaries of my comfort zone.

The future for JM looks bright. 
This company is unique because of the products we make and the people that make them. The people we bring in and retain allow us to cope with an ever changing market place. I wanted to work somewhere that makes a positive contribution to society and in a chemical/processing environment where I could gain as much experience as possible. I knew that a rotational programme with a FTSE chemicals company who place sustainability at the heart of their vision would allow me to do that.

Also, JM’s culture is ethical, flexible and relaxed. 
I haven’t been here long but I feel that the most rewarding part of my job is passing on what I’ve learnt to the people I work with and playing a role in their development. Everyone is keen to learn and help make a positive contribution to the world. As such, sustainability is a common interest throughout the workforce, and this is especially true for the younger generations. The advice I would give new graduates is to make the best of the opportunities that come your way. Every graduate that comes into the business will work on a variety of different projects. Some projects aren’t the most glamorous , but they will all give you valuable experience for the future.

Key facts

Joined JM

September 2016

 
Site based at

Royston

 
Sector experience

Efficient Natural Resources

 

"The most surprising aspect was how much my mentors focused on personal development, which is a big part of the graduate scheme."

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