Launching your career with ABP: Millie Barnes on the Graduate Training Scheme
We recently caught up with Millie Barnes, who joined the Operations Graduate Scheme in October 2022, to hear about her journey from a university graduate to her current role as Assistant Operations Manager at Newport in South Wales.
From university to ABP
Millie joined ABP fresh from Loughborough University, where she studied for a degree in Natural Sciences. While studying, she also completed a placement year, which gave her an early taste of professional life. "I came across ABP on a graduate website," she says. "I’d always been interested in big operations, and the ports industry sounded like a perfect fit—even though I’d never set foot on a port before!"
With a background that included experience in agriculture and food production with companies like Bird’s Eye and Lamb Weston, Millie found the scale and complexity of ABP’s operations especially appealing.
Inside the Graduate Training Scheme
Over the two-year programme, Millie undertook several three-to-four-month placements across ABP’s regions and functions. "Most of my time was spent in the Humber, but I also had out-of-region placements in South Wales, which included working with the property team in Cardiff," she explains. She also spent time with the Communications Team and spent time at ABP’s ports in Southampton and Garston.
"I got a broad view of how different parts of the business link together. Even in operations placements, I made a point of understanding how other functions work to see the bigger picture," she adds.
This variety is a highlight of the scheme. "You meet so many people and build a great network. Even now, in my role in Newport, I often call colleagues in the Humber or other regions for advice. It's so useful to have that network."
Transitioning into a full-time role
Towards the end of the scheme, Millie was clear about her career aspirations. "I knew early on I wanted to stay in Operations, though I wasn’t initially set on a region." A placement in South Wales proved pivotal. "I loved my time there, and Newport felt like an exciting place to be, especially with the major projects underway."
Her advice for navigating the transition from graduate to full-time role? "The scheme teaches you how to manage your workload and adapt to new challenges—skills that are invaluable in any role."
A day-in-the-life of an Assistant Operations Manager
Now based in Newport, Millie’s days are as varied as the scheme itself. "At the moment, I’m focused on rolling out a new IT system, so I spend a lot of time testing and introducing it to the team on the ground," she explains. "But my role also involves overseeing the safety and efficiency of operations. It’s a great mix of being out and about while also handling policy and process work in the office."
“Some stand out experiences from my time in my new role include visiting the Tata Blast Furnace in Port Talbot, before it closed for good.
“I was also privileged with the opportunity to travel to India with Craig Stephen (Head of Operations) and Ashley Curnow (Divisional Port Manager) to meet with Tata and to see the large-scale operations of Paradip port operator, J M Baxi Group. The trip was focused on exploring how all three parties can collaborate successfully to support TATA steel on their transition to Electric Arc Furnace and green steel making."
Advice for future Graduates
For anyone considering the scheme, Millie has some simple advice: "Be yourself. The application process is as much about finding out if ABP is the right fit for you as the other way around. If you like a fast-paced, varied environment, this is the place for you."
And once you’re on the scheme? "Make the most of it. Ask lots of questions—no question is a stupid one. People love talking about their roles and are happy to share their knowledge."
Millie’s journey from graduate to Assistant Operations Manager is a testament to the opportunities and experiences ABP’s Graduate Training Scheme offers. If you’re ready for a career where every day is different, where you can make an impact in a dynamic industry, ABP might just be the place for you.
Ready to start your journey? ABP is looking for talented graduates wanting to become future leaders in the port industry and help shape the future of green energy.
Applications are currently open for the ABP Graduate Training Scheme, which will start in October 2025. Closing date for applications: 6th January 2025. To apply, visit: careers.abports.co.uk/content/graduate.
