People looking for careers in food and drink manufacturing can now get information on jobs and training at the click of a button, following the launch of the sector's first virtual careers adviser.
'Dunkan', a gingerbread man with a difference, has been developed by Improve, the food and drink sector skills council, and is accessible through the organisation's website. The animated character has been designed to make it easier to learn about different job opportunities and qualifications within the sector.
"We wanted to make finding out about careers and training on the internet more interactive," explained Sue Fairest, skills development manager at Improve. "Rather than having to trawl through pages of information trying to find what you're looking for, you can ask Dunkan very specific questions. Or, if you're not sure what you're looking for, Dunkan will ask you a series of yes or no questions before suggesting areas of interest he thinks might suit you best.
"Although Dunkan offers lots of fun elements, including a recipe for how to make him, he points the way to some important and serious information. He's targeted at everyone interested in working in food and drink manufacturing - from school-leavers to adults wanting a change of career, and existing employees who want to explore different job opportunities within the sector. He provides a light-hearted, user-friendly way to access the extensive information Improve has compiled about food and drink careers."
The launch of Dunkan is part of Improve's new Information, Advice and Guidance programme, which aims to raise awareness about careers within food and drink, and help engage employers in new ways of attracting potential employees.
Find out what Dunkan has to offer by visiting www.improveltd.co.uk and clicking on the 'careers' tab. | 
