The journey of a trainee at Kühne + Heitz
Just graduated and ready for a career in food trading? A traineeship can be your springboard to success. Here you make on the job acquaintance with all aspects of commerce. But what does such a traineeship at Kühne + Heitz look like in practice? Trainee Nicolas tells you all the ins and outs, so you know exactly what to expect.
Why did you choose a traineeship at Kühne + Heitz?
“A traineeship explains here really the basis for the profession. See it Like building a pyramid; then you don’t start either at the top. The same applies here: hhe important thing is that you understand the logistics side of the business as well as having a good view of the business dynamics, otherwise you are missing a solid foundation. And Kühne + Heitz appealed to me immediately: acting on a global level in a friendly our-customer atmosphere.”
What exactly does the traineeship look like?
“The traineeship lasts a total of one year and consists of two phases:
- Logistics: For the first three months, you’ll walk around the logistics department and basically discover how everything works: from transportation and systems processes to meeting colleagues. You will learn more about handling contracts, transports and related rules and documentation. The entire supply chain is covered. An important foundation!
- Commercial: For the remaining months, the focus shifts to the commercial aspect. Your day then really consists of: building relationships with customers, selling products, negotiating and spotting business opportunities. Communication and trust play a major role here. In short: your phone is never off.”
What were your expectations beforehand?
“That I would learn more about food trading, and everything that comes with it. That I would mainly learn the basics that are important to this field. I hoped to lay a solid foundation, the base of the pyramid.”
...And were they fulfilled?
“Definitely! Indeed, my expectations were even exceeded. I have learned what is involved in ‘food trading,’ and also got to experience it myself. For example, last year I got to go to the Gulfood fair in Dubai, the world’s largest annual fair in the world of food trading. What an opportunity! And I didn’t just get it, but as a reward for my hard work. Moreover, there is an atmosphere here where you can really express your own ideas. The strong bond with my colleagues, the openness and flexibility complete the picture.”
"You need this foundation to continue to grow."
How did this traineeship prepare you for the future?
“I now have a better idea of what I want, how the company works and what is expected of me. You need this foundation to grow further. You take it one step at a time, learning every day. Over time, you build up more experience. The important thing is that you do the work in a way that suits you. You also get that freedom. If you are organized and flexible, can communicate well and work in a team, you will go far here.”
What advice would you give to someone considering a traineeship at Kühne + Heitz?
“Come experience it for yourself! Don’t be afraid to take on challenges and give it a chance. Even if you don’t yet have a clear picture of what it means to be a “trader. You really only find out in practice. And at Kühne + Heitz you really get the room to develop yourself and the freedom to do it your way. It is a club where I feel at home”