From Sales Intern to Integration Analyst: Jackie Reading's Journey of Growth at Ferrara
Jackie's growth at Ferrara® exemplifies our devotion to fostering career development and growth, making it an exciting place where talented individuals thrive.
Short Description of Jackie Reading's Ferrara Journey
- 2023 – Sales Intern
- 2024 – Jelly Belly Integration Analyst
Q&A with Jackie
Q: Can you share a bit about your initial role at Ferrara and what drew you to the company?
JR: I've been a fan of Ferrara's brands since childhood, and when I went through the Sales Internship interview process, I could feel the energy and excitement from the team. Their passion for what they do was motivating, and I knew this was a place I wanted to be.
Q: What were some of the most valuable experiences or lessons you gained during your internship?
JR: One of the biggest lessons I learned was how an organization works cross-functionally. I had the opportunity to work with different teams and speak with employees across the company to see how they interact and solve challenges together. It was so exciting to be encouraged to ask questions and really dig into how things work.
Ferrara's internship is well-structured, and I had the chance to work on ongoing, impactful projects that made a difference. It wasn't just about learning; it was about contributing too.
Q: How did your internship prepare you for your current role as an Integration Analyst?
JR: The exposure I had to different functions during my internship made my transition to a full-time role much smoother. I was already familiar with Ferrara's processes, technology, and ways of working, which allowed me to hit the ground running.
Because I spent time learning about Ferrara as a whole, I was able to quickly dive deeper into the Jelly Belly business when I started my full-time role. The relationships I built during my internship also made it easier to collaborate with different teams.
Q: What advice would you give to current interns or early-career professionals looking to grow within Ferrara?
JR: Network, network, network! Go to every event, take advantage of every learning opportunity, and get to know your community within Ferrara. The more you engage, the more comfortable you'll feel, and the more you'll grow your interpersonal skills.
Be open-minded, ask questions, and learn from those around you. Understanding what other teams and employees do will give you valuable insights and help you succeed in the long run.
Q: What has your overall experience at Ferrara been like?
JR: This is truly my dream job at my dream company. I've learned so much in such a short time, especially as Ferrara expands internationally. When I first started, I felt welcomed and supported, which gave me the confidence to grow in my role and at the company.
I'm incredibly grateful to the people who took the time to help me learn, and I'm excited to continue developing my career here. Plus, Ferrara knows how to celebrate big wins, which makes the experience even better!
