What is your job title? Assistant Director of Marketing in Brand and New Media.
Why did you choose this field?
I studied Marketing at university but I did not pursue this as a career until much later in my life. I enjoyed the theoretical side of marketing and I spent a year in Germany in a marketing role but felt that it wasn’t as creative as I’d have liked so I then went into ad- vertising for ten years ! I finally reverted back to the marketing industry 2 and a half years ago when I saw an ad in the Guardian for my current role at Barnardo’s because I thought it might be interesting to sit on the other side of the fence as a client.
What is a typical day? I don’t have one! My day to day tasks involve briefing different agencies on our advertising campaigns and digital activity, advising internal teams on our brand identity, but also using trends and insights to develop future marketing strategies. I also have a large budget to manage and on most
days, have several meetings to attend.
What qualifications are required if any?
I think it is beneficial to have some formal training in marketing as this gives structure & familiarisation with what is expected in this role. Training also gives insight into the background of what goes into most product & brands. You can do this at degree level but it’s also possible to obtain formal qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
Do you work to deadlines? Deadlines are a must! These are usually driven externally. By this I mean, that they are driven by the best time to launch marketing activity for our brand. For example, when an advert has to go out on TV or we are launching a new campaign online, we have to work to fixed deadlines with our agencies to make sure that it all happens.
What happens if you don’t manage to meet those deadlines?
Worst case scenario, all the
effort and time put into running the campaign would account for absolutely nothing. In addition to that, it would be a complete waste of the charity’s resources, which is not a good thing!
What are the hours like? Now that I am dealing with the client side of marketing, the hours are much more amenable. I start at 9am and have usually completed a full day’s work by 6pm ready to leave by 6.30pm
Are you passionate about your role?
I am very passionate about my role. I have a huge interest in the brand and marketing industries. I have enjoyed watching them evolve over the years particularly, since the evolution of digital. Another reason why I am so passionate is because I am working with Barnardo’s - a children’s charity which really helps to turn lives around.
What advice would you give somebody that wants
to venture into this field? I would definitely suggest some kind of formal training. Read the
Trade Press, industry blogs and books pertaining to the industry. Research innovative products and brands, become excited about them as this will help to keep your focus fresh. Find an organisation that you feel you can connect with and learn about their culture.
How do you get your kix? In work, I take great pride in seeing things happen. For instance when we put an advert out and then I see it whilst sitting on the tube or hear it on the radio - that is an amazing feeling! Outside of work, I get my Kix by doing the things I love with the people I love!
Words by Kym Small
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