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Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst
Sales, Retail & Purchasing

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Denise Harrington is a Supply Chain Analyst at Musgrave. Denise studied Commerce International with German at UCC.

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What were the main 'career decision' milestones in your life so far?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I would say there are two

1. The decision in my final year of college on the path I wanted to take – I knew exactly the areas of work I didn’t want to partake in, but I was open to any opportunity that came my way

2. Understanding what area of supply chain I wanted to go into once I finished the graduate programme. I spoke with a number of people from supply chain and across the business to understand each area and better understand where I could see myself learning and developing the most for this next stage in my career.

Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

When applying for the graduate programme first day I would say my friends and family influenced me.

For my current role my past managers have definitely influenced me positively as they were able to provide me with insights into the role.

How did you go about getting your current job?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I made the most of my time on the Graduate Programme and utilised all the networks I made throughout no matter what department or level of seniority they may have been.

Describe a typical day?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Normally I have meetings and presentations throughout the day with my team where we work through analysis and draw conclusions from the data that is provided. I will then reply to any emails in between these meetings.

What are the main tasks and responsibilities?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Analysing Big data, presentations, and managing expectations are definitely my main tasks and responsibilities.

What are the main challenges?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

The main challenges for me are managing expectations of those to whom I am presenting data and analysis as people can have differing or conflicting views.

What do you like most?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I get to work with people from the full Musgrave network.

Is there anything that isn't great?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Some days working from home can be difficult as something simple like asking someone a quick question becomes a task in itself, trying to find time between online meetings.

What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Problem solving and team work are definitely two of my strongest skills which are incredibly important for Musgrave.

What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I’ve always really enjoyed any Maths based subjects, so this really suits my current role for the analysis side of things.

What is your education to date?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I finished my leaving certificate in 2015 and went straight into first year in UCC that following September where I studied Commerce International with German for 4 years, during this time I also got the opportunity to study abroad for 10 months as part of Erasmus. I do try and upskill as much as possible too.

What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

The ability to do group project work and presentations

What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Being nominated for the Musgrave Graduate of the Year by one of my colleagues.

What personal qualities do you have that helps you in your career?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I’m flexible and a team player and able to react to a fast-paced environment. 

What is your dream job?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

A successful manager within the supply chain networ.

Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Absolutely. I get the best of both worlds. I work from home and do analysis myself, but also have the opportunity to go to different sites across Cork, Kildare and Belfast and meet new people.

What advice would you give to someone considering this job?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Take every opportunity that comes your way, don’t be afraid of a challenge. Don’t be afraid to throw yourself into things, you’ll learn on the job.

What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Team work, self confidence and adaptability.

Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

I have just begun the Green Belt in Lean Supply Chain Management, which will definitely help me in my current role, this is a programme Musgrave offer jointly with UCC. I have also begun a 4-week Project Management course to understand the basics of this. Later on, I would like to go back and do a Masters to help me with my future roles, but that will be another few years down the line.

What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Any retail or hospitality experience. 

What is your current job title?

Denise Harrington, Supply Chain Analyst

Supply Chain Analyst

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