Jerry Nutare, now key Accounts Manager for Solomon Islands and Southern at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) PNG, has come far since starting as a part-time employee in October 2015 – a job he initially took during the holidays to pay off university tuition fees. Nutare was serving as the president of the University of Papua New Guinea’s East New Britain Students Association, when he first encountered CCEP (previously called Coca-Cola Amatil) in Port Moresby. He remembers making a stop by CCEP’s Gordon’s office to collect cartons of drinks purchased for an event at UPNG. That was where he met a few employees in the Sales department – individuals whom he expressed his interest in working part time for the company. Starting as a casual sales trainee in 2015, Nutare balanced work and studies as a third year UPNG student with the support of CCEP. “In 2016, while completing registration and enrolment for my fourth academic year, I got a call from CCEP about a full-time job opening in Sales and I accepted.” From the Sales Merchandiser role he progressed to the Trade Marketing Representative (TMR) role in 2017. “When I became a TMR, CCEP supported my education by providing a vehicle, which allowed me to visit my customers efficiently and then drive to school for classes.” “With just one or two classes a day, I was able to manage both responsibilities, serve my customers and attend my lectures as scheduled.” Nutare was further promoted to the role of Area Sales Manager for Modern and General Trade from 2019 to 2021 and later to the Highlands Regional Activation Managerial role in 2022. His experience has earned him a reputation as a reliable figure in delivering results and innovation within CCEP, propelling him into his present position as the Key Account Manager for the Southern and Solomon Islands, a role he has occupied since last year, 2024. Nutare attributes his consistent advancement to the essential guidance he gained from sales managers, area sales managers, and regional sales managers during his career. “The business nurtures talent and gives you opportunities to grow.” “I was fortunate to benefit from hands-on coaching, in-trade training, and a culture of mentorship that shaped my development. I’ve even had the privilege of mentoring five former team members into current leadership roles.” He explained that the CCEP’s work culture fosters a healthy environment that gives space for your voice to be heard. One of the highlights of his career came when he Represented CCEP at the Highlands Cultural Show—an only-at-CCEP experience that celebrates both community and culture. With eyes set on future roles like Regional or National Sales Manager, Jerry offers this advice to aspiring professionals. “CCEP is the best place to grow. Stay committed, stay curious.” CCEP isn’t just a workplace, it’s a launchpad to nurture talent. Where capabilities are stretched, and growth is not just encouraged, but expected.