Fuelled by Ambition...Agata Gierszewska
We caught up with one of our incredible members Agata Gierszewska, Operational Excellence Analyst at Dunbia to get to know more about her career journey and ambitions for the food industry. As part of our campaign 'Fuelled by Ambition' we're sharing the stories of our community and asking them to define ambition in their own terms, as well as give us as insights into their career journeys so far.
Please share your current role with us and tell us more about your career journey so far.
My current role is Operational Excellence Analyst. It would seem that this is now a natural progression, but my path to this position has been quite unusual.
I come from a completely different background – I completed studies in Law and Oriental Philology – specialising in Persian language. I had no prior experience in the meat industry, and stepping into it was a huge change in both my personal and professional life. Starting everything in a completely new environment, in a different country was a challenge for me, but also one of the most valuable lessons in my life.
I began my journey in the meat industry from the bottom, gradually gaining knowledge and experience in various departments: Production Worker, Food Safety and Quality Controller, Administrator, Room Leader – M&S Champion and stepped into my current role.
Each step of the way taught me something new – about the industry, about teamwork, and about myself. Starting from scratch wasn't easy, but it was incredible experience, this taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of continuous improvement – not just in process, but in personal growth. Every small win kept me going.
What would you say your top strength or superpower is and how has it helped you in your role?
My top strength it is definitely adaptability – I learn quickly and adjust to the new role and environments. It is a powerful trait in fast – changing industries. My superpower, I think it is turning challenges into growth. Every challenge motivates me to act, and I learn lessons from every obstacle.
One of the biggest challenges in my career was being exposed to a completely new role as an Operational Excellence Analyst, coming from a different background. I often felt like I wasn’t good enough. They key learning I took from it was that growth starts outside of your comfort zone. No matter how long a journey you have been on, that journey show how capable you really are.
Who do you look to as a role model and why?
As a role model, I consider the person who gave me the chance and opportunity to step into my current role, as possess all the qualities of a leader and mentor. Through his guidance, I learned what it means to be strong – not just in skill, but in mindset. I taught the importance of inspiring others and lifting people up.
Our campaign this year is called Fuelled By Ambition. What does ambition look like to you?
Ambitious – to me, means striving to become the best version of myself – constantly growing and improving, gaining experience, and pushing beyond my comfort zone.
What would an ambitious future for the meat industry look like?
An ambitious future for the meat industry means striking a balance between productivity, technological advancement, and responsibility. Producing more efficiently while respecting animals, protecting the environment, and with strong ethical standards.
Quick Fire questions:
What’s your favourite cuisine?
Japanese – especially sushi and ramen. I love balance of flavours, the simplicity, and the attention to detail.
Favourite pastime or hobby?
One of my favourite hobbies is travelling through South America. Every travel has taught me something new about culture, people and appreciation for the simple things in life.
If you had to pick your soundtrack song to get you through the working day, what would it be?
Journey “Don’t stop believing”.
Favourite holiday destination?
Japan and Argentina.
