5 minutes with… Quality Manager Christine Wilkinson of Linwoods
Armagh Jobs caught up with Christine Wilkinson, Quality Manager at Linwoods, on her route into the award winning business.
What was your route into the company?
After graduating, I joined Moy Park, where I spent four years gaining experience in a large, fast‑paced organisation. That role gave me a strong foundation, exposure to structured processes, and the opportunity to develop professionally within a well‑established business.
After that, I was keen to move into a company that aligned more closely with my interest in health and nutrition. That led me to Linwoods Health Foods, where I could apply the skills I’d built while continuing to grow in a more agile, values‑driven environment.
How long have you been involved in this type of work?
I have been working in quality assurance roles within the food industry for over 20 years.
What were your favourite subjects in school and why?
I always enjoyed Business Studies and Home Economics because they were practical and relevant, and they helped shape my interest in business, food, and health.
Did you go on to university or further education and what did you study?
After leaving school, I attended Loughry College, where I graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Food Supply Management.
Did you always have this career in mind?
Not exactly. I had a general interest in food and business from an early stage, but my career direction developed over time. Through my studies and then gaining experience in the food industry after graduating, my interests became clearer. Each step helped shape the path I’m on now, rather than it being something I had firmly planned from the start.
What do you enjoy about it?
I enjoy the responsibility and impact of ensuring our products meet high safety and quality standards, especially within a health‑focused business. The variety, problem‑solving, and cross‑team collaboration make the role really rewarding.
What are the main skills required for it?
Key skills include strong food safety knowledge, attention to detail, problem‑solving, clear communication, and the ability to lead and influence others while driving continuous improvement.
What would your advice be to anyone thinking of it as a career?
Build strong food safety knowledge, be open to learning, communicate well, and embrace change — quality assurance is a challenging but very rewarding career.
How do you relax when you’re not working?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, getting outdoors, indulging in a bit of retail therapy, and sampling as many coffee shops as possible — all essential ways I switch off and recharge!
Linwoods currently have a number of roles available with Armagh Jobs – click here to check them out!