R&D Manager Review
at Costa Coffee
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Consumer Products/FMCG
Loudwater, Buckinghamshire
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
4.5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.2/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Lead the development of high-impact, multi-platform coffee beverages designed to drive meaningful market share growth and strengthen consumer preference, placing innovation at the heart of brand and commercial success. Own and present the product roadmap, confidently guiding gating conversations across all levels of the organisation, including BU Marketing Directors and the Costa Executive team.
Act as a critical member of the product development leadership team in establishing the Global Innovation Centre of Excellence. Strengthen strategic partnerships and external collaborations to inspire and shape a forward-looking innovation pipeline, unlocking opportunities three to five years ahead.
Act as a critical member of the product development leadership team in establishing the Global Innovation Centre of Excellence. Strengthen strategic partnerships and external collaborations to inspire and shape a forward-looking innovation pipeline, unlocking opportunities three to five years ahead.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I'm enjoying the programme to a great extent. I particularly value the range of modules, covering areas such as leadership, managing global teams, competitive strategy, and finance. I've appreciated the opportunity to develop my presentation skills through interactive sessions.
What I find most valuable is being able to directly apply my learning in my day to day role, especially as I work closely with cross functional and global teams. This makes the programme both relevant and impactful.
What I find most valuable is being able to directly apply my learning in my day to day role, especially as I work closely with cross functional and global teams. This makes the programme both relevant and impactful.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I've developed stronger strategic thinking and a more global perspective, particularly when working across teams. I've also improved my communication skills, and gained a better understanding of how different business functions connect, which has helped me be more effective in my role.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well structured, with a clear progression across modules. At times, there may be opportunities to improve the flow or pacing, but overall it supports learning effectively.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive a good level of support from my employer. My line manager is particularly helpful and encoruages my development, supporting me in building relavant skills and applying what I learn through the programme. As a suggestion, my employer could create valuable opportunities to further support apprenticeship students by facilitating engagement with the executive team, as well as encouraging involvement in leadership activities and discussions around company strategy. This would help enhance the overall apprenticeship experience and ensure that Level 7 learning is recognised and valued at a senior level within the organisation.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a good level of support from my training provider while working towards my qualification. I have regular meetings with my coach, who is very supportive and helpful. During these sessions, we discuss my personal development, career progression, and next steps throughout the course, which helps me stay focused and make consistent progress.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I believe the qualification is important and supports me in developing the knowledge and skills needed to perform better in my role. However, its value goes beyond completing modules or assignments. It also requires ongoing personal development and the ability to apply what I have learned in a practical way. Making a real difference in my role depends on taking ownership of my development and actively using these learnings in the workplace.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are extra-curricular activities available at my workplace, including social activities and opportunities to connect with colleagues. However, these are not directly related to my apprenticeship or professional development. Introducing activities such as networking events or initiatives aligned with the apprenticeship programme could further enhance the overall experience.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Costa Coffee to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I really value the company’s culture, and working with my colleagues is one of the best aspects of the role. The positive and supportive environment makes it an enjoyable place to work.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Costa Coffee?
I would recommend Costa Coffee as a great place to work, with a strong work life balance and a positive environment. The leaders are welcoming and approachable, which helps create a friendly and supportive culture.
