Product technology and science: Romilly Edelmann

Name: Romilly Edelmann

Job: Quality assurance manager

Employer: Sainsbury's

Area of work: Product technology and science

Qualifications: Food science, University of Leeds

What does your job involve?

I work in the quality and innovation department, where new products are developed. My role is to make sure products are consistent, safe and comply with company policies and external legislation. I work with chilled convenience products  – sandwiches, sushi, pre-packed hams, etc. I'm based at the head office in Holborn, where all the non-store functions such as buying and marketing are based. I work in a team of 13 and we're all responsible for a specific product area. I deal with approximately 30 suppliers and make supplier visits on a regular basis. I also monitor any complaints we receive and deal with policies and legislation that may affect the business.

That's not the usual retail job – how did you get into it?

I did a placement during my summer holidays in the department, and they offered me a job on the graduate scheme after it. I wanted to use my food science degree, so working in quality assurance was perfect.

Do you get lots of free food?

Not quite! But I do get ten per cent discount in the store which isn't too bad!

Do you go into stores?

As part of the graduate scheme, I have a store placement to gain an insight into the front end of the business. Movement around the company is encouraged too – if I had an urge to work in another department I'd be supported. But I'm happy where I am to be honest. I'm aiming to become a quality manager.