From trainee to leader of CSR and sustainability

Emilie’s interest in grocery retail and sustainability started early. She has a Master of Science in Business and Economics from OsloMet and wrote her master’s thesis on sustainability in the supply chain. Alongside her studies, she was employed at a REMA 1000 store, a job she thoroughly enjoyed.

– I cried when I handed in my resignation at the store.

A mentor encouraged her to explore career opportunities in the grocery retail sector. He believed that a fast-paced industry with exciting opportunities would suit her well. This, combined with her academic background, made the leadership trainee program at Reitan Retail a natural choice.

Early responsibility as a trainee

As a leadership trainee, Emilie started in the operations and people department at REMA 1000 Norway. She reported to the then leader of CSR and sustainability.

– I was given responsibility for food waste, a major challenge in the industry. I also worked on reporting and contributed to the development of our Responsibility Report, she says.

Emilie experienced a lot of trust and responsibility from day one. She had the freedom to find solutions on her own.

– It was scary, but also incredibly motivating to know that my efforts truly made a difference.

From trainee to leader

The transition from leadership trainee to leader happened quickly and unexpectedly. The position became available, and Emilie was offered the role. At the age of 24, she suddenly became the leader of a large and important area. Emilie believes that the trainee program gave her the resilience and confidence she needed to take on the leadership role.

– When my dream position appeared, I had to seize the opportunity. I felt they believed in me, and it felt completely right to accept this chance. I completed the trainee program in parallel.”

Towards a more sustainable everyday life

As Leader of CSR and sustainability, Emilie is responsible for implementing and following up on REMA 1000’s sustainability strategy.

– I believe that corporate social responsibility is not just an ethical choice, but also a profitable one.

Emilie views her role at REMA 1000 as an opportunity to make a real difference. The grocery sector accounts for 30 percent of global emissions and affects countless people every day. Working in this sector provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a better world.

– Every day I can see the results of our work and know that we are making the world a little better.

The culture across Reitan Retail is characterized by trust and opportunities for growth.

– If you share our values and are ready to take responsibility and develop yourself, you can learn almost anything, she adds.

Seize the opportunity as a leadership Trainee

For those who wish to pursue a similar career path, Emilie offers the following advice:

• Say yes to opportunities and challenges.
• Find your passion and let it drive you.
• The grocery retail sector offers speed, innovation, and opportunities for those who want to shape the future.
• Share the company’s values, the rest you can learn along the way.
• At Reitan Retail, actions speak louder than words, and the opportunities for personal and professional growth are endless.