Written by Patille Joy Madaghjian
When people think of dietitians, they often picture someone in a clinic or hospital, dressed in scrubs or a white coat, and interacting with clients and patients discussing nutrition plans. And what a thrill that is! To learn about the different dietary habits of people from different cultures and empowering them to improve their health through nutrition is incredibly rewarding, especially when they are poorly.
But what most people don’t realise is the potential and growing presence of dietitians in non-clinical, industry-based roles. From food and beverage and pharmaceutical companies to communications and marketing, dietitians are using their expertise to influence public health on a much larger scale!
My educational and professional background is a very international one. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the American University of Beirut, Lebanon, I went on to earn a Master's degree in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition from University College London (UCL). I built a career as a clinical dietitian. I was the one in the white coat, whizzing around the wards, reviewing medical notes, and discussing nutrition care plans with patients dealing with acute or chronic conditions. Most of my clinical career took place abroad, and during this time, I became licensed as a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist in both the U.S and U.K.
After several fulfilling years in clinical practice, I returned to London and transitioned into industry with Holland & Barrett. In my current role in the Science Team, I support science-led initiatives that place nutrition at the centre.
I joined Holland & Barrett as a Science Specialist, and I can confidently say it is one of the most exciting and rewarding roles I’ve had to date! In this role, I review scientific evidence for different ingredients, substantiate health claims, and recommend ingredients for product innovation and development. I also support internal and external communications across diverse audiences.
What I love most about Holland & Barrett is the energy and passion colleagues from all departments bring – connecting with like-minded professionals, learning how the different business functions effectively work together, and expanding my network has truly been remarkable!
I would like to give a special shoutout to Team Science! Our team is becoming even MORE embedded across the business, partnering on product development and all things content and communications. This collaboration ensures that everything we do is evidence-based.
We regularly attend conferences and webinars, actively networking with fellow nutritionists and dietitians, and keeping up with the latest research and trends shaping the field. There is SO much to learn – and share!