Meet Lauren Murray: Corteva's Marketing Communications Intern
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Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I have a background in Nutrition, having graduated with a bachelor’s in science from Leeds Beckett University in 2023. I was lucky to do a placement year in healthcare focusing on type 2 diabetes and early diagnosis reversal which was incredibly interesting, but it felt like something was missing. I have always been interested in the food sector and when the opportunity through MDS came about to work in industry in fresh produce and agriculture – I jumped at the chance! Being part of MDS I have been fortunate to have a range of roles from technical at a fresh fruit supplier to marketing and communications at Corteva. Going into my final 6 months on the scheme, I will be working with a retailer in a commercial role which will expand my knowledge further.
I have been with MDS since October 2023, and I have enjoyed every minute. No two days are the same and I have gained important insights into the food industry as well as stakeholder and customer journeys. Being part of Corteva’s Marketing Communication team has been an amazing opportunity and I have learnt so much!
What inspired you to apply for the internship at Corteva?
Although I have no prior experience in the agricultural industry, the MDS trainee graduate scheme have provided me with incredible opportunities to learn more about the sector.
At Corteva, I have had many opportunities to explore how a worldwide company operates by shadowing various teams to learn about their day to day’s as well as challenges they face. From day one, everyone at Corteva has been incredibly helpful and kind, letting me learn about the agriculture sector with the many questions I have! I also have a newfound appreciation for farmers, and they daily work they do to ensure food availability is kept up.
What has a typical day at Corteva been like for you?
No two days are the same! Being a marketing and communications assistant encompasses a range of tasks from organising promotional materials, social media posts and maintaining the Forage and Arable apps, there is lots to be getting on with.
More recently, I have been compiling our Promote Our People (POP) blogs from the inspiring women in the UK business to highlight on our website ahead of International Women’s Day on the 8th March 2025. It has been amazing hearing about peoples’ backgrounds and passion for the work that they do and Corteva itself.
What have been your highlights of this role?
A highlight for me has been the opportunities given to me to jump in and learn new things that I would normally never get the chance to experience. Across January and February, I was part of the launches which were held across the country for two new grassland herbicides,ProClova® XL and ProGrass™, helping from acquiring venues right the way through to being part of the events themselves. This was a brand-new venture for me, coordinating multiple stakeholders ahead of time to ensure the day went smoothly and all that attended for the most out of the briefings. I was encouraged by the MarComms team to take the lead and make informed decisions, and they gave me the support I needed to ensure the launches were a success. They gave me confidence to keep trying new things and never be afraid to ask questions.
Do you have advice for people wanting to enter the agricultural sector?
Although I have only been in the agriculture sector for a short period of time, I would encourage to continue to ask questions and be curious. Take every opportunity to speak to new people and be willing to learn and grow. You may find something you never knew interested you and could be the exciting start of something new!
If you are looking for a role with a difference, Corteva is the right choice, providing valuable learning experiences. Find out more about our talented team here.
