Colleague Career Spotlight: Holly Roper

This International Day of Girls and Women in Science, we sat down with Holly Roper RNutr to talk about how she got into the world of Nutrition, and what it's like working in the field of Health & Science Communications at a leading health retailer.

Hi Holly! Tell us a bit about yourself; when did you join H&B and what’s your role in the Business & Science team???

Hi! I am a Registered Nutritionist specialising in scientific storytelling and innovative nutrition communications. I joined H&B at the end of 2023 when I landed my dream role as Health & Science Communications Manager. This role allows me to bring together my passion for translating nutritional science, workplace wellbeing, championing science-centric brands and finding creative ways to engage key stakeholders on hot topics in health and wellness.?

How did you get into the world of Health Science / Nutrition????

Although an interest in physiological and behavioral sciences brought me into the world of nutrition - it’s the amazing people within it which are the reason I have stayed. If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be to network, connect and nurture your professional connections.?

Being a Nutritionist in Industry is a rewarding career as you work on a variety of projects to ensure water-tight scientific credibility across organisations, and having a great support network around you is key.???

What was one thing that attracted you to Holland & Barrett when you were looking for your next role??

I remember seeing one of the revamped stores in my local area and being so impressed by the new look and feel. I then saw the new food range go live and I was hooked! It was clear to me that H&B were skyrocketing and taking health and wellness to the next level. I followed them online and turned job notifications firmly on – and the rest is history.??

Have you got a favourite H&B product???

It would have to be the Glow Kombucha ‘With Benefits’. It’s my favourite drink of choice for a pick me up during the dreaded 3pm slump after lunch, it’s high in vitamin C and it’s sugar-free. It’s also a delicious and convenient way to include more fermented food and drinks into your overall diet. You can find it in the fridge section of your local Holland & Barrett.?

Tell us one thing you’re excited about in your job???

There are too many things to mention! But if I had to pick one thing - at H&B we have the opportunity to complete a Lean Six Sigma Certification, so I am currently working towards that with another colleague of mine in the Science Team. We will be presenting our project to a board of senior leadership and directors in a few weeks!?

If you had to describe being part of H&B, what 3 words would you use???

Energising, proud & rewarding!

...and finally, what advice would you give to future candidates considering working at H&B??

1. Immerse yourself in the world of H&B – watch some of our YouTube videos, listen to our Wellness Edit podcast and follow us on social media. This will enable you to understand more about the company values, get a feel for the types of experts we work with and hot topics we focus on.??
2. Visit a store and see our new product ranges in the flesh! If you have time, consider speaking to some of our store colleagues too – they are friendly, approachable and knowledgeable on all things health and wellness.??
3. Stay up to date with the latest science and be able to demonstrate how you are maintaining your continued professional development alongside your studies and/or employment.?

We thank Holly for sharing her story.

Interested in joining our team on the mission to make health & wellness a way of life for everyone? To view and apply for our current job opportunities, as well as learn about life at Holland & Barrett, please visit our Careers Website.

We’re passionate about helping every colleague thrive across all dimensions of wellbeing, and we’re committed to having a diverse and inclusive workplace. In line with our EPIC values (Expertise, Pioneering, Inclusive, Caring), we embrace, respect and actively celebrate all our colleagues unique and varying experiences, backgrounds, identities and cultures - I am me, we are H&B.