Jay Price – CAFRE Alumni

Jay Price from Derryhale, County Armagh speaks about his time as a student at the College’s Loughry Campus and his career after graduation. Jay graduated from Loughry Campus in June 2019, and is now Wealth Manager at JVP Wealth Management .

Why did you decide to study at CAFRE? 

My parents are both self-employed. Growing up in an entrepreneurial environment meant that I always had an awareness about what it takes to run your own business.   As a child I was always interested in how my parents ran their business and this exposure gave me the passion to find out more about business operations. 

This interest led to me studying a BSc Honours Degree in Food Business Management at CAFRE, Loughry Campus. This degree included a one year work placement which provided me with an opportunity to achieve a Diploma in Industrial Studies; an additional qualification to my degree. I secured a one year work placement at White’s Speedicook where I worked as a Quality and Technical Technician. My placement year provided me with valuable work experience and an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge into practice. This work placement led to full time employment with White’s Speedicook after graduation.  

You have recently moved into a new career, how has studying at CAFRE influenced your career? 

I have recently been accepted onto a career change programme through St. James’s Place which has enabled me to pursue a career in Wealth Management. 

The BSc Honours Degree in Food Business Management included digital marketing, sales management and business economics modules, all of which helped me build a portfolio of skills transferable into wider business. I am currently continuing with my education as I am studying a Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning with the Chartered Insurance Institute.  

What was your main motivation to begin a venture in financial services? 

I always have always wanted to start my own business and whilst studying at CAFRE I particularly enjoyed the business modules. During this time I had experience of watching friends struggle as a result of not having protection provisions in place for themselves. Observing this inspired me to venture into the world of financial services to become someone who can offer guidance and support. 

What was your greatest achievement whilst studying at CAFRE? 

At graduation I received the Ulster Bank Financial Cup – this was awarded to the student with the highest academic performance in the module of Food Business Financial Management. This played a pivotal role in influencing me to pursue a career in financial services.  

Would you recommend studying at CAFRE? 

I enjoyed my time immensely at CAFRE, Loughry Campus – I would highly recommend studying at CAFRE to anyone with an interest in food and business. I gained invaluable skills and experience. CAFRE creates a feeling of a community and it allowed me to build friendships with likeminded people. The lecturers have a vast array of industry experience and they provided excellent academic and personal support which helped me to reach my potential. I would advise anyone who has an interest in the food industry to study at Loughry Campus. It will equip you with employability skills for life and has superb facilities that replicate the food industry.