Interview preparation plan: Materials Development Intern at Ardagh Group

Practice questions (20)

1. Tell me about a time you led a team through a crisis.
2. Describe a situation where you convinced someone of an idea.
3. Tell me about a conflict with a colleague/manager and how you resolved it.
4. Tell me about a project where you collaborated with other teams.
5. Describe a difficult decision you had to make quickly.
6. Tell me about when you had to adapt to a major change.
7. Tell me about a mistake you made and what you learned.
8. Give an example of how you motivated a team.
9. Describe a time when you had to handle feedback.
10. Tell me about a time you had to work under a tight deadline.
11. Describe a situation where you had to learn something new quickly.
12. Tell me about a time you faced a significant obstacle.
13. Describe a time you established a new process.
14. Tell me about a time you needed to persuade your peers.
15. Describe a time you worked with someone from a different background.
16. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond.
17. Describe a time you had to deliver bad news.
18. Tell me about a time you had to make a decision with incomplete information.
19. What factors do you consider when selecting materials for a new product?
20. Explain the difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.

Questions to ask the interviewer (8)

• How does Ardagh Group prioritize sustainability in its operations?
• What are the key expectations for a Materials Development Intern in the first 90 days?
• Can you describe the team dynamics within the materials development department?
• What opportunities for professional growth does Ardagh Group offer to interns?
• What challenges does Ardagh Group foresee in the materials development sector?
• What leadership qualities does Ardagh Group value the most?
• How does Ardagh Group leverage technology in its materials development processes?
• What is the company's approach to innovation in product development?

Study topics (8)

• Ardagh Group's Packaging Innovation and Sustainability Strategy

  Study Ardagh Group's mission of 'packaging for good' and their commitment to sustainable, infinitely recyclable packaging solutions. Understand their 2030 Science Based Targets and how materials development directly supports their circular economy vision. This is critical because it demonstrates alignment with the company's core purpose and shows you understand how your role contributes to their strategic goals.

• Materials Science Fundamentals for Packaging

  Review core concepts in materials science including material properties (strength, durability, recyclability), polymer chemistry, and glass/metal characteristics as they apply to packaging. Focus on how different materials perform under various conditions and their environmental impact. This foundational knowledge is essential for a Materials Development role where you'll be evaluating and testing packaging materials.

• Circular Economy and Recyclability in Packaging

  Understand the principles of circular economy design, recyclability standards, and how packaging materials can be designed for end-of-life recovery. Learn about current recycling infrastructure challenges and innovations in material design that enhance recyclability. This is vital because Ardagh's entire business model centers on infinite recyclability and sustainable packaging solutions.

• Laboratory Testing and Materials Characterization Methods

  Study common testing methodologies for packaging materials including tensile testing, thermal analysis, barrier properties testing, and durability assessments. Familiarize yourself with standard testing protocols and quality assurance procedures used in materials development. This is important because interns typically conduct or assist with material testing and evaluation in development roles.

• Ardagh Group's Core Values and Company Culture

  Deeply understand Ardagh's four core values—Inclusion, Trust, Teamwork, and Excellence—and how they manifest in daily operations and decision-making. Review their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as their Code of Conduct emphasizing integrity and ethical business practices. Demonstrating knowledge of and alignment with these values will help you articulate cultural fit during the interview.

• Recent Innovations in Sustainable Packaging Materials

  Research current industry trends in sustainable packaging including bio-based materials, advanced recycling technologies, lightweighting innovations, and emerging material alternatives. Stay updated on recent breakthroughs and challenges in the packaging materials sector. This shows you're engaged with the industry and can contribute fresh perspectives on materials development opportunities.

• Regulatory Standards and Compliance in Packaging

  Learn about key regulatory frameworks governing packaging materials (FDA, EU regulations, food contact materials standards) and how compliance testing is conducted. Understand how regulations drive materials development decisions and innovation in the industry. This knowledge demonstrates awareness of real-world constraints and requirements that shape materials development projects.

• Data Analysis and Problem-Solving in Materials Development

  Prepare to discuss how you would approach analyzing experimental data, troubleshooting material performance issues, and making recommendations based on test results. Familiarize yourself with statistical analysis basics and how to interpret material property data. This is important because internship roles require systematic thinking and the ability to draw meaningful conclusions from experimental work.