At Grands Moulins de Paris, there are more than 200 different roles. Since the milling industry is often perceived as a very male-dominated field, we’re shining a spotlight on positions held by women, starting with a profile of a passionate and determined woman: Laëtitia Boutron, a production line supervisor in Briare.
I worked for Sofria for 15 years, after which it was acquired by Grands Moulins de Paris, which I joined 10 years ago. As of November 1, 2023, I will have been working at the Briare site for 25 years. I was also awarded a long-service medal for my 20 years with the company.
Over the years, my role and responsibilities have changed significantly.
What is your current position?
For the past few years, I have been a production line supervisor, overseeing the smooth operation of my packaging line. My role involves starting up the machines, monitoring operations, and performing first-level maintenance on products such as Francine mixes and flours, as well as flours for artisanal bakeries and other markets. It’s a job I’m passionate about, and one in which I’ve truly thrived over the years.
What do you love most about your job?
Today, I hold a position with a wide range of responsibilities; there’s no monotony because I switch production lines very frequently. Another aspect I really enjoy is that, for several years now, I’ve been training men and women to become production line operators on various machines. I love passing on my knowledge and expertise to others; it gives me a sense of fulfillment in my work and motivates me even more.
Did you ever imagine you’d end up in this line of work when you were younger?
For the past few years, I have been a production line supervisor, overseeing the smooth operation of my packaging line. My role involves starting up the machines, monitoring operations, and performing first-level maintenance on products such as Francine mixes and flours, as well as flours for artisanal bakeries and other markets. It’s a job I’m passionate about, and one in which I’ve truly thrived over the years.
How did you end up in your current position?
At the Briare site, there are many opportunities for career advancement. I started my career as a line operator. I then became a Francine line operator on the cartoning machine, which is used to pack products into cartons and bags. Then I became a bagging line operator, specifically for 2.5 kg packages (Francine) and 5 kg to 20 kg packages (flour for bakers).
And now I am an operator for several lines, ranging from product manufacturing to packaging.
In addition to my job assignments, I’ve had the opportunity to develop my skills. Training others has boosted my self-confidence. Recently, I received training on the yeast line, which requires greater precision since we work with small packets (baker’s yeast, etc.).
I believe that employees have the power to shape their own career paths; you just need to seize opportunities and learn to communicate effectively with your managers. For my part, I plan to get my CACES* certification so that I can work more independently and step in for certain colleagues when needed.
*“The CACES, or Certificate of Competence in Safe Driving, is a type of license that, once obtained, authorizes the holder to operate construction equipment such as auxiliary cranes, forklifts, and aerial work platforms… It not only certifies the ability to operate self-propelled mobile and lifting equipment but also helps reduce the risk of workplace accidents associated with the use of such machinery.” (Source: Gojob)
Do you think there are gender disparities when it comes to filling these positions?
Obviously, it is easier for men to secure positions as line operators compared to women, who are limited to carrying loads of no more than 15 kg during the bagging process. Nevertheless, at the Briare site, special attention is paid to providing women with opportunities in these roles despite these limitations.
This year, Grands Moulins de Paris scored 99 out of 100 on the gender equality index. Did you know that?
I didn’t realize that GMP’s gender equality index was so high. It’s an excellent score, and I hope we’ll reach 100% soon! At the Briare site, at least, I can attest that management values gender equality. And to bring about change, I think everyone has a role to play!
What would you say to a potential candidate to convince them to apply?
This profession is still seen as a male-dominated field, but that’s not actually the case, since women can perform just as well as men. That’s very rewarding! Women and men are treated equally, and we all have the same opportunities for career advancement.
You just need to be willing to work varying shifts—you might work mornings or evenings.
In conclusion, what are the three values that define Grands Moulins de Paris?
Sharing, kindness, and expertise.
