We’re AB InBev, brewer of some of the world’s best beers, like Stella Artois, Corona and our American brand Budweiser.    

Introduce yourself, your career at AB InBev, your current role & responsibilities? 

Hi everyone! My name is Dionne and I’m currently a trainee at AB InBev on the Commercial Management Traineeship (CMT) in the off-trade channel. This means that I’m the first point of contact to many retailers in my region. As an ambassador of AB InBev, this allows me to have lots of contact with customers as well as ensuring strong visibility in stores and on shelfs for our AB InBev brands.  It’s my job to make sure AB InBev is represented in the best way possible, which is a lot of responsibility but a lot of fun! 

You have joined AB InBev through one of our graduate programmes, what do you believe made you the right candidate for the Commercial Management Traineeship? 

First of all, I felt the connection with AB InBev's culture from the first time I got acquainted with the company. During a campus event at my previous university, I was inspired by how passionate the attending AB InBev's employees were about their job and the company. Their resilience, motivation and ambition were infectious and gave me a strong sense that my career journey should begin there too. And look how it worked out! 

Secondly, for the Commercial Management Traineeship, it’s important to have that commercial mindset. Where others maybe might not see or notice an opportunity, you can spot it and act straight away. It’s alright if it has not been fully developed, but you’re empowered to trust your instincts when negotiating which gives you a real buzz and sense of achievement. Also, the responsibility you get from day one is really motivating as you know your job has a direct impact on the company performance.  

I think what helped me throughout the whole application process was just being myself, trying to enjoy the total experience.   

What is the biggest challenge you have faced since starting at AB InBev? 

My biggest challenge has been getting used to the multiple number of relationships which need to be managed at the same time, making sure all my customers are satisfied with AB InBev as a business partner. Since you’re allowed to manage your own agenda, it’s important to visit customers regularly to create and maintain relationships so time management is key. Also, it can be challenging to convey your vision for AB InBev's brands to customers who might have a different vision or idea. But I have a great support network in my team which helps me to deal with any objection handling.

Any advice you would give to future graduates? 

I always thought that I had to find a job or traineeship that completely fitted my studies. Now, I know that the most important factor is your connection with the company, its purpose and values. The intense pride I feel working for AB InBev gives me all the motivation and joy while visiting clients every day. Therefore, my main takeaway is not to focus too much on the job itself but make sure to feel at home at the company you work for.