Meet Ioana, a graduate chemical engineer

Name: Ioana Bucevschi
Job Title: Graduate Chemical Engineer
Location: Sherburn, United Kingdom
Date joined : July 2023
Degree: Medicinal Chemistry with a year in industry
University attended: University of Leeds

What does your role in Kingspan involve?

My role as a graduate chemical engineer in the Insulated Panels division entails all chemical related activity to ensure smooth and efficient production of the foam that goes inside our panels. Some of my daily tasks include designing processes for large-scale manufacturing, conducting research to contribute towards the development of new products as well as the improvement of existing ones, and overseeing production to ensure that products and procedures are safe and compliant with regulatory requirements.

What is the most interesting project you have been involved in since you joined?

I’ve had the opportunity to work on several existing projects over since I have joined Kingspan, but by far, the most interesting ventures included the trialling of new formulations and equipment. These projects make me feel like I make a real contribution to the future of the company, whilst I get to expand my expertise on foam development and production processes.

What prompted you to apply to Kingspan?

What attracted me to apply to Kingspan was firstly the vast number of opportunities which the Group offers. Coming up to the end of my masters degree, I felt slightly nervous and uncertain of what I would like to do in the future, so joining a company which provides a range of roles and career possibilities worldwide felt right. In addition, I feel passionate about taking action on climate change now to ensure a sustainable and habitable planet for future generations, so Kingspan’s Planet Passionate Program definitely played an important role in my desire to apply to the graduate scheme.

What was your experience of the Kingspan graduate recruitment process?

My experience with the Kingspan graduate recruitment process was a very positive one, and I deem it as one of the smoothest hiring processes I have undergone during my time as a finalist student. From day one of my application, I was constantly updated on the progress and next steps, with clear instructions and realistic deadlines being well defined; this had made it a lot easier to balance my graduate job hunt with my final year studies. Furthermore, the people that I got to meet throughout this process have expressed a welcoming and supportive attitude, and created an inviting environment which made me feel even more excited about joining Kingspan.

Have you any tips for someone else thinking of applying to Kingspan?

If you are considering applying to Kingspan, then I definitely recommend giving it a shot! Firstly, be mindful of the deadlines – you have months to apply so don’t leave it for the last minute especially if you have to juggle between your studies and job applications. Do your research on the Group and show how your values align with the Kingspan ideals. Have an open mind as you could land a role in a new field that takes you anywhere around the world.

Looking back, what qualities and behaviours do you think you displayed during the recruitment process which made you a good fit for Kingspan?

From the feedback I have received after the recruitment process, I consider that my enthusiasm and determination to take initiative have been my biggest selling points. Coming from a chemistry environment with no prior engineering experience, I had to have the right attitude and willingness to learn and challenge myself. Remember that while possessing the right technical skills could be a desirable element, these can always be learned, and the recruiters are more interested in how you approach a challenge.