Name
Shannon Smith
Age
27
What is your area of focus / What certifications or qualifications are you working towards?
I am currently studying a Level 4 Marketing Executive Apprenticeship to support me in my role as marketing and communications officer.
What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship in food manufacturing?
I joined Kingsland Drinks over two years ago as an artwork executive with no experience of drinks manufacturing. Previous to this, I studied photography at university. After a recent promotion to marketing and communications officer, I was really keen to expand my experience and knowledge in marketing and an apprenticeship was the perfect way to do this.
Learning while I’m on the job, allows me to apply my new knowledge to real life tasks and workplace situations and it’s a great way to start on a career path. Working in the drinks industry is exciting – I work with a lot of like-minded people, I can observe and learn from the talented teams, and it’s great fun to trial and experiment with new products. No two days are the same and it’s a really varied role.
How did you find out about this apprenticeship program?
I discussed learning opportunities with the learning and development manager, and we identified that the apprenticeship would be a great way of learning new skills and how to apply these within Kingsland Drinks.
What are some of the key skills you’ve learned so far?
I have been given so much exposure within the business and its different divisions so I have picked up lots of new skills in a short space of time.
I have become more confident presenting to colleagues and leading meetings, offering input and suggestions for activities that meet the company’s business objectives, and how to communicate effectively with suppliers, wider partners and clients.
These are important skills to have within the workplace and will be a huge benefit to my assessment period and also my career moving forward.
How has your mentor or trainer supported your growth?
My skills coach has been really helpful in breaking down parts of the apprenticeship terminology that I hadn’t previously had any exposure to. She has also been supportive with explaining ways of independently expanding my knowledge outside of the apprenticeship and within the workplace. She is always available for support or guidance whenever needed.
What has been the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship?
Meeting other apprentices from different sectors. It is a great opportunity to network and get to know other professionals and learn from them how they also apply Marketing in their sectors.
Since starting the apprenticeship, I have been able to apply some of the knowledge I gained on market research to Kingsland Drinks. I recently conducted a site wide survey on our current internal communications and how we can build on this. The response to the survey was well received and we are starting to roll out some really exciting campaigns that will support our members to align with our business goals and objectives. This has given me a real sense of achievement and ownership of a project and it’s rewarding to see the initiative through and play my part in the progression of the campaigns.
Where do you see yourself in five years within the food industry?
I see myself as a confident and knowledgeable marketer, leading campaigns and championing good communications within the industry. I’m excited to build on my current skills, diving deeper into marketing and consumer trends to help drive the growth of innovative food and drink products.
