Holly Wright
Site Operations Manager
Holly's interest in maths and science led her to study chemical engineering and join Diageo's Graduate Management training scheme. Holly currently manages the Speyside Dark Grains Plant & Dailuaine Bioplant.
| 5 things you do regularly in your job |
1. Listen and talk to lots of people 2. Liaise with contractors 3. Look after the health and safety of people on site 4. Place orders and control site budgets 5. Ensure the site is fully compliant with the required rules and regulations |
| What made you decide to do this type of job? (teacher/ role model etc) | At school I was always good at science and maths but did not want to go down the traditional route of a pure science or maths degree. Looking at the university prospectus’ Chemical Engineering seemed to offer the “best of both worlds” where I could study subjects I enjoyed but related more to “the real world”. I decided to study at Heriot Watt University as had a great atmosphere when I visited during an open day. The Chemical Engineering course also offered a year in industry elective and I thought that would be a great opportunity to use the skills I was learning in a working environment. I completed my year in industry at a distillery in Edinburgh which I enjoyed so much that I applied to join the Diageo Graduate Management Training Scheme. My first placement was in malt distilling and I have now returned to the North of Scotland in my current role as an operations manager. |
| How did you get to where you are now? | Chemistry, Maths, English, Physics & Computing at Higher level followed by Chemistry & Maths at Advanced Higher. Degree in Chemical Engineering with a Diploma in Industrial Training from Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh. Joined the Diageo Graduate Management Training Scheme and completed the Institute of Brewing and Distilling Diploma in Distilling Qualification. |
| What motivates you? | I am a perfectionist so completing everything I do to a high standard on a daily basis is a great motivator. I also find the challenge of every day being different a huge motivation. |
| Any other info? E.g. activities you have done with schools, what you can offer schools etc. | As well as recently joining the STEM programme in the North of Scotland I am a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expedition Assessor and enjoy the outdoors. I enjoy taking part in fitness classes at my local sports hall and have a particular passion for spinning. |
