Abbie Sheehan
Following her time at Esher, Abbie, successfully completed a Degree Apprenticeship in Sales at Mondelez International where she now works full time. We caught up with her during our recent Degree Apprenticeship Fair.
School: Thamesmead School
At Esher: 2019-2021
Subjects studied at Esher: Business Studies, Economics and Sociology
Progression: Degree Apprenticeship in Sales at Mondelez International
Now: Sales Revenue Planning Executive at Mondelez International
Why did you choose Esher Sixth Form College?
I chose Esher Sixth Form College because of its strong academic reputation and the wide range of courses on offer, it meant I was able to select subjects that align with my interests and future career goals.
I was also drawn to the college’s supportive environment. Knowing that I would receive the help and guidance needed to succeed both academically and personally, alongside the modern facilities and the vibrant campus atmosphere further convinced me that Esher would provide a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.
What were your course highlights at Esher?
My course highlights at Esher included diving deep into subjects I was passionate about and being challenged to think critically and independently.
I particularly enjoyed the interactive and engaging lessons in business studies. It was in these lessons that I first heard about Mondelez International (where I work now!), the discussions and debates were always stimulating, encouraging me to explore different perspectives and deepen my understanding.
How did your teachers inspire you?
My teachers inspired me in many ways. Their passion for the subjects they taught was infectious, making even the most challenging topics interesting and accessible.
They encouraged me to push beyond my comfort zone, always urging me to think critically and question assumptions and the personalised feedback and support they provided helped me to grow academically and gain confidence in my abilities.
Their dedication and commitment to helping every student succeed motivated me to work harder and strive for excellence.
What was your career path after Esher?
After leaving Esher Sixth Form College, I pursued a degree apprenticeship in Sales at Mondelez International.
Over the past three years, I have had the opportunity to work in three different roles, each offering unique challenges and learning experiences. Alongside gaining practical experience, I studied towards a degree in Business Management and also earned a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) qualification. This path has allowed me to develop both academically and professionally, equipping me with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career.
What are you doing now?
I completed my apprenticeship in August 2024 and now work full-time at Mondelez International. I’m currently in Sales Revenue Planning, where I manage the Cadbury Biscuits and LU Biscuits portfolios. It’s an exciting role that allows me to apply the skills I’ve developed over the past few years while continuing to grow in the industry.
What have been your career highlights so far?
Some of my career highlights so far include presenting to 300 sales people at our winter show, where I had the opportunity to unveil our Christmas plans for the following year.
I’ve also been involved in launching new products, which has been incredibly rewarding, and I have been part of the most amazing teams, bringing national product launches to life. These experiences have been both challenging and fulfilling, marking significant milestones in my early career.