Somerset Chamber is proud to support a diverse range of organisations in the Somerset business community who are as passionate about our region as we are.
In the latest in our ongoing series of interviews, we will be shining a spotlight on some of our Business Partners, recognising their commitment to Somerset, its business community and beyond.
Somerset Voices is also a chance to find out more about the people behind the brands!
Our next Somerset Voices spotlight is on with Emma Cox, UK Talent Lead in Early Careers at Müller UK and Ireland.
Please introduce yourself and tell us about your role. What does a typical day look like for you?
I currently work at Müller UK & Ireland as the UK Talent Lead in Early Careers. In my role, I oversee our apprentices, graduates, internships and work experience programmes, supporting people as they take the first steps in their career. A typical day involves working closely with colleagues across our UK sites, education partners and early careers talent to attract, develop and support future skills. I enjoy the balance of strategic planning and hands on involvement, helping individuals build confidence, grow their skills and progress into meaningful, long term careers within the Müller.
Can you tell us about your business/organisation, what you do, where you’re based and how your work has a positive impact on those you work with?
Müller Milk and Ingredients, a leading private label dairy producer in Britain, supplies fresh milk, cream, butter and ingredients nationwide. At our Bridgwater dairy in Somerset, we work closely with University Centre Somerset College Group and local education providers to deliver established apprenticeship programmes. These programmes create clear pathways into skilled, long term careers in food and drink engineering and manufacturing. By investing in training, mentoring and development, we support individuals to build skills, gain recognised qualifications and progress within the business, while also strengthening the local talent pipeline and supporting sustainable growth across the region.
What do you enjoy most about doing business in Somerset?
What I enjoy most about doing business in Somerset is the strong sense of community collaboration and networks. There’s a real commitment among businesses, education providers and local organisations to work together to create positive outcomes for young people across the region. Somerset has a proud heritage of manufacturing and food production developing skills and talent development. This allows us to drive more opportunities for young people, support local career pathways and see first hand the impact that investment in people has on individuals, businesses and the wider community.
Outside of work, what’s your ‘Somerset favourite’, as in a place to visit or activity you like to do in our county?
Outside of work, my Somerset favourite is spending time outdoors with my three children. We love camping and being by the sea, whether that’s on the beach, camping or simply enjoying the fresh air together. Walking is something we do a lot as a family too, especially Crook Peak which is a firm favourite. It’s one of the best ways for us to slow down and reconnect. Somerset gives us beautiful coast and countryside, making it easy to explore and switch off from busy working life and enjoy simple, memorable moments together.
How long have you been members of Somerset Chamber of Commerce and what prompted you to join?
We have been members of Somerset Chamber of Commerce for a year. We joined to connect with other local businesses and, as a large regional employer share our experience and give something back. Being part of the Chamber allows us to support others with the local skills agenda and help create meaningful opportunities for people to develop skills and build long term careers.
What has been the most valuable aspect for you/your organisation, of being part of Somerset Chamber?
The most valuable aspect of being part of Somerset Chamber has been the opportunity to connect with like minded organisations who share a commitment to supporting people and developing skills locally. The Chamber provides a strong platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and meaningful conversations about workforce challenges and opportunities. For us, it’s been particularly valuable to share our experience in Early Careers, learn from others and contribute to initiatives that help develop skills and access long term career opportunities. Being part of the Chamber reinforces the positive impact businesses can have when they work together to support people and the wider Somerset community.
What advice would you give to a business thinking of joining Somerset Chamber?
My advice would be to get involved and make the most of the relationships and networks the Chamber offers. It’s a great opportunity to learn from others, share experiences and collaborate on and understand the current and future landscape of the region.
Join Somerset Chamber of Commerce to give your business a stronger voice both locally, regionally and nationally. Combined with local town chambers, we represent over 2,000 businesses across Somerset with a direct line to policy-makers at all levels.
