Ideas with Impact
UNB Faculty of Management

Learning about opportunities for growth, and the possibility of building an entire career with one company, was a key takeaway for James Hartmann after attending a recent guest speaking event at the University of New Brunswick.

The speaker was Jeremy Underhill (BBA ’08), who delivered a talk on Oct. 17, 2025, as part of the McCain Speaker Series organized by the International Business and Entrepreneurship Centre (IBEC) and the Centre for Financial Studies (CFS).

Underhill shared his journey from being a BBA student at UNB to launching his career at McCain Foods’ Florenceville-Bristol headquarters, where he advanced through key roles to his current position as Director of Strategic Materials Management.

He offered insights into procurement and supply chain functions within McCain’s global operations, explaining how strategic sourcing ensures high-quality food production and delivery while maintaining strong supplier relationships and managing costs. Underhill also highlighted current opportunities in McCain Foods’ supply chain division in New Brunswick and Illinois.

Now in its seventh year, the McCain Speaker Series introduces UNB students to professionals like Underhill to broaden their understanding of career possibilities, help them visualize their own paths and build valuable industry connections.

This fall, students have also heard from Oriana Cordido, Business Banking Relationship Manager with BMO, who shared her experience as an international student and her journey into entrepreneurship through internships and volunteer work.

In November, Cathy Simpson, CEO of TechImpact, will discuss the evolving tech landscape in New Brunswick and opportunities for business students in a rapidly advancing AI-driven world. During the winter term, the series will feature speakers from the finance and investment sectors.

In the midst of their studies, it can be hard for students to anticipate what opportunities await after graduation. The McCain Speaker Series provides practical insights and real-world examples to help them navigate their career journey.

For students like Hartmann, hearing about the potential to build a long-term career with one organization was eye-opening: “Jeremy’s experience made me reflect on the value of committing to a company that invests in its people and whether working through the ranks remains a smart and fulfilling career choice in a rapidly changing world influenced by artificial intelligence.”

Photo: Jeremy Underhill, Director of Strategic Materials Management with McCain Foods, was featured at the IBEC Speaker Series (Oct. 17, 2025) where he talked about his career path and career opportunities for business students.

Learn more about the International Business and Entrepreneurship Centre (IBEC) and the McCain Food Speaker Series.

Media contact

Liz Lemon-Mitchell
Lizabeth.Lemonmitchell@unb.ca