Business Hall at Rowan University was transformed into a bustling marketplace of flavor and opportunity this week as Camden-based Campbell’s staged a four-hour “takeover” to scout the next generation of business talent.
On Feb. 10, the iconic food company traded the boardroom for the classroom, filling the halls with everything from Pepperidge Farm Goldfish and Pace salsa to V8 Energy and their world-famous soups. But while the snacks were a hit, the real goal was building a “talent pipeline” for one of New Jersey’s most recognizable global brands.
With a global workforce of over 13,000, Campbell’s is looking right in its own backyard for its future leaders. Chief Communications Officer Anthony Sanzio noted that the partnership with Rowan is a “logical step forward,” citing the university as a premier resource for local talent.
“Rowan offers so much of what we’re looking for,” Sanzio said, noting that Rowan alumni are already making an impact within the company across several departments, including:
- Supply Chain & Engineering
- Marketing & Communications
- Finance
For the nearly 500 students in attendance, the event was more than just a free lunch. It offered a rare, direct line to recruiters and executives from a Fortune 500 company.
Pepe Haupthoff, an international student from Germany, emphasized the importance of these “out of the classroom” moments, while Amie Ryno, director of the Rohrer Center for Professional Development, highlighted that the event successfully exposed students to the diverse business functions behind the food on their plates.
