Meet Christine who works for Capita Local Government
What is your job in a nutshell?
My job is to ensure that the strategy and commercial aims of the company are totally aligned with its goals, promoting the business at both a regional and national level. It’s also very extensive covering everything from business development, bid management, marketing and PR to event organisation and client liaison.
Tell us about your career journey so far? How did you get your first job?
After leaving school I started an Administration Apprenticeship in a doctor’s surgery, I had always known that University wasn’t the route for me. Going straight into work from school meant that I could have a salary and enjoy my favourite things mainly, shopping and holidays but on a serious note, it also enabled me to take an early step on the property ladder.
I enjoyed the role but always felt drawn to the world of construction, it’s an industry I was very passionate about especially the opportunity of working on North East schemes and I quickly landed a role at a local construction firm. I completed my apprenticeship with them along with further qualifications in customer service, health and safety, business and management gaining valuable “on the job” experience and working my way up to Purchasing Manager, in fact, if you ever visit a Roadchef service station it’s likely I bought the catering equipment!
After seven years I moved to Faithful+Gould and expressed interest in Business Development and Marketing, I met with the team and was offered the role of Marketing Coordinator starting my journey with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). It was clear to me that this was the role I wanted to do long term as it gave me the opportunity to express my creativity and utilise my communication skills (or the fact I love to talk!). I subsequently moved to Capita, starting as Business Development Manager and four years later now work in a national role for their Local Government division.
What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
It’s so diverse – no two days are the same. I could be working on a major deal, promoting the business at an exhibition, producing marketing collateral or attending local networking events. It means I get to meet and work with a great mix of people. Also, because Capita is a FTSE 100 company, there is always something new to learn. In previous roles I felt I knew the job inside out but here, I am encouraged to use my diverse skill set and get involved in projects outside my own remit to develop my skills further.
What do you love about working in your industry?
I love to see projects come to fruition, from an initial pin notice to producing a winning tender, to then seeing the project emerge – it always excites me. I won’t lie, working in the industry is still very tough, having been through two recessions and seeing the struggles lots of companies have faced I am thankful to be involved in such an exciting role, which encourages me even more to succeed.
Has studying with nesma helped you in your current role?
Without a doubt. Although I didn’t take the traditional College/University route that my friends did, I always knew I wanted to continue my education and to expand my knowledge. Studying with nesma gave me the opportunity to do just that. I completed my CAM Diploma in Digital Marketing with them which most certainly helped me secure my current role and I would definitely study with them again. The flexibility of evening classes and home working was ideal for me and I also met some great lifelong friends along the way!
Want to find out how we might be able to advance your career?
Let’s chat over the phone or we can meet you at your place of work.
In addition to a range of CIM, CIPR and DMI qualifications we also have a number of Skills Sessions on offer to help boost your marketing knowledge one day at a time.
