As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2023 we’ve spoken to Emma Wilson, our Marketing & Events Manager about her career so far, why she chose to take up an apprenticeship, and what she would say to others interested in starting an apprenticeship…
When did you start your career?
I started my career back in 2017 at the age of 16 when I joined Peel Ports Group as a Digital Marketing Apprentice. During my three-year apprenticeship I successfully completed my Level 3 and Level 4 Digital Marketing Diplomas and an IDM Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing which is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?
After leaving school I always wanted to complete an apprenticeship as I knew university wasn’t for me. With that in mind, it was so important to me to gain qualifications whilst receiving support and guidance throughout my learning. I love learning whilst working and I was keen to be independent and earn a wage.
Tell us about your career so far…
After three-years as Digital Marketing Apprentice at Peel Ports, I was then promoted to Marketing Executive where I expanded my knowledge of the more traditional side of marketing. My role specialised in digital communications and delivering integrated marketing communication campaigns for the group.
Fast forward four-years, I then left Peel Ports to go and work for housing group Regenda as a Marketing and Communications Officer before moving back into the fast-paced maritime sector in 2021 when I joined Mersey Maritime as their Senior Marketing & Events Executive.
I am now in position as the Marketing & Events Manager at Mersey Maritime where I manage all marketing and events with the support of my colleague, Abbie Milne, who is currently part way through her own marketing apprenticeship journey.
What is the biggest highlight of your career so far?
As part of my role as Marketing & Events Manager, one of my key responsibilities is to deliver our large-scale events; the Mersey Maritime Exchange Conference, and the Mersey Maritime Industry Awards (MMIAs).
Back in November 2022, we held the 8th Annual Mersey Maritime Industry Awards. The event was held at Liverpool Cathedral and was the biggest and most high-profile yet, with 600 guests present drawn from across the UK and beyond.
With working within the maritime industry for several years and attending the MMIAs on multiple occasions, to be asked to deliver this event was an honour!
What is next for you and your career in marketing?
After graduating from my IDM Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing back in 2019 and having a few years out of education, I am now heading back to learning as I start my Level 7 Marketing Leadership Programme delivered by the CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) which is equivalent to a master’s degree.
I personally love working within the marketing and digital world as it is constantly changing and there’s so much to learn, which means there’s always something new every day!
What would you say to others considering an apprenticeship?
Sometimes people can dismiss apprenticeships however in my experience it’s been so rewarding for me. I’ve had exposure to high profile events, people, and amazing opportunities which I would never have experienced otherwise. Apprenticeships really do offer you #SkillsForLife
I am really looking forward to continuing to learn and make a contribution to not just Mersey Maritime but the wider maritime industry too!
