Case study

Abby Metcalf, Ingredients & Formulation team, Level 6 Food Industry Technical Professional Degree Apprenticeship, The Magnum Ice Cream Company

Published: 17 September 2026 Updated: 17 September 2026

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Abby Metcalf, Ingredients & Formulation team, Level 6 Food Industry Technical Professional Degree Apprenticeship, The Magnum Ice Cream Company

Abby is completing a Food Industry Technical Professional Degree Apprenticeship at TMICC RD&I and Nottingham Trent University. She consistently exceeds expectations through high-accuracy lab prototyping, pilot plant delivery, specification management and innovation support, while staying ahead of University assignments and aligning them to business priorities.

Under intense senior scrutiny, she delivered flawless, externally validated prototypes that helped lock a breakthrough recipe within two weeks and supported launch within six months. She led pilot plant trials for marketing approvals, submitted 92 specifications while strengthened supplier alignment. Abby works effectively across TMICC teams, senior stakeholders, external suppliers and Nottingham Trent University.

She is a strong ambassador supporting peers as an apprentice buddy, leading Year 12 and 13 work experience and encouraging apprenticeships in schools

Colleague Testimonial

“In 2025, Abby independently led the Unilever Colworth Work Experience Programme for Year 12 and 13 students, successfully managing the planning, preparation and delivery of the week-long programme. Her commitment to student safety, wellbeing and continuous improvement was evident throughout, as she actively sought and acted on feedback. Taking ownership of such a significant initiative demonstrates Abby’s confidence, leadership and dedication, with the positive student feedback reflecting the programme’s success.”

Judges' Comment

“Abby’s application was clear, engaging and easy to follow, strongly highlighting her practical involvement in projects. Specific examples of her work, the tangible outcomes she contributed to, and thoughtful colleague testimonials clearly demonstrated the impact she has made.”

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