From linguist graduate to communication specialist: intriguing pathways to rewarding careers in food
The latest in the Careers Conversations series from Table Talk explores some of the secrets behind building a career in food communications and brand strategy.
Sophie Caplan is a Flavours Communication Specialist at global flavour and fragrance manufacturer Givaudan. She studied English Language and Linguistics at university, during which time she started a personal food blog.
Sophie describes how this personal interest spurred her on to find a company that aligned with her personal values – ultimately leading her to Givaudan. She shares her journey to her dream job, which involves working with consumer insight experts and food technology teams all the way through to planning social media campaigns, content creation, podcasts, thought leadership, managing media, and more.
She is joined by Alex Ririe, Director at The Collaborators – a specialist food and drink branding agency. Alex studied advertising management at university and went on to work in financial advertising. But, it was her passion for wine and spirits that has led her to be a successful specialist in food and drink brand strategy and storytelling. She is now a leading brand strategist and recognised industry speaker working with some of the most exciting food and drink brands in the sector.
Hear their stories about what drew Sophie and Alex to the food industry; how their personal values have shaped their career paths; why being a people person matters in food communications and how to stand out when applying for that first job.
About our panel
Sophie Caplan, Flavours Communication Specialist, Givaudan
Sophie joined Givaudan in 2019 as part of the Europe Communications Taste & Wellbeing team. In this role, she develops communication campaigns for key Givaudan business priorities from various segments including savoury, sweet goods and dairy, snacks, beverages and more.
Sophie graduated from The University of Manchester in 2012, with a degree in English Language and Linguistics.
Sophie has always been passionate about food and ran a successful healthy food blog during her time at university.
Alex Ririe, Director, The Collaborators
Alex is consultant and strategist with over 20 years’ experience gained both agency and client side.She joined The Collaborators in October 2018 to help drive the continued success of this award-winning branding, design and marketing consultancy, specialising in food, drink and lifestyle brands.
Alex has a personal and professional passion for wines and spirits having attained the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits and led the Pernod Ricard global business at leading branding consultancy, Coley Porter Bell for eight years. She also sits on the WSET Alumni Advisory Board as the UK representative.
