Tina Brindley

Why did you choose to study at Newcastle University Business School?

The Business School has lots professional accreditations  for their courses, which helped with my preparation for my ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) study.

The School also offers lots of opportunities to engage with businesses which gives students the chance to engage, network and understand the future of the working environment. Not only could we connect with companies, but we were also able to speak and connect with other students at different levels of study, many of whom had already gained work experience.

What has your career journey been like since you graduated?

My career journey has had its ups and downs, but each role has contributed to where I am today. Currently, I work as a Digital Marketing Executive at Road 51 Services, a local agency in Newcastle. In this role I'm responsible for developing and executing digital marketing strategies, including social media campaigns and advertising.

I also undertook a volunteer role earlier in my career. Looking back, this experience played a crucial role in shaping my career path. I initially volunteered in the finance office at Oxfam, which I found through the University’s Career Service. This opportunity not only allowed me to gain valuable insights into the UK work environment but it also helped me develop key skills, such as communication and teamwork. It gave me a real understanding of how things work in a professional setting in the UK and prepared me for my future roles.

Now, in my current position, I use the skills and knowledge I gained during my volunteer experience, particularly in communication, cross-cultural understanding, and teamwork, to offer valuable insights and support. I've learned how to continuously adapt and grow in a competitive environment, which has been essential to my development and progress in my current role.

How did the School prepare you for your current role?

The Business School not only provides an academic background, it also provides lots of opportunities for students to develop an open mind. Through attending various activities, I had the chance to talk to people from many professions and different backgrounds, which improved my confidence and communication skills.

Through attending a summer programme offered by the School called Future Business Leadership, I joined the group visiting Newcastle United Foundation. We had a meeting to share ideas on how to help the charity to engage more people and make more profit, and I developed management skills through that programme.

Have you used any of the services at the School since you graduated?

I booked an interview advice session after I was invited to attend job interviews. The careers consultant provided me with many materials that I could use to prepare for my interview, and arranged a practice interview with staff from the Career Service. This gave me more awareness about what to expect from the interview and how to speak during the interview.

What is your biggest achievement in your career so far?

My biggest career achievement so far has been my successful transition to my current role in digital marketing, which was a direct result of my initial volunteer work at Road 51 Services. Initially, I was helping the company with marketing efforts, where I was tasked with reaching out to over 20 potential tenants in a short period of time. This experience allowed me to demonstrate my communication skills, efficiency, and ability to engage with clients effectively.

Impressed by my work, my manager saw my potential and offered me a full-time position as a Digital Marketing Executive. Since then, I have been responsible for creating and executing digital marketing campaigns, including social media, and online advertising, to help the company grow its online presence.

Although my degree background was originally in finance, I’ve leveraged my transferable skills while transitioning into marketing. I’m also branching out into the property field. I’m proud of how my career has evolved from volunteer work to taking on a strategic marketing role and am excited about the future opportunities in this field.

What are your future aspirations?

In the short term, I plan to continue developing my expertise in property investment and letting. I’m focused on deepening my knowledge of the UK property market and enhancing my skills to succeed in this dynamic field.  My primary goal is to identify premium property listings, deliver outstanding customer service to students, and improve the cost-effectiveness of student living in the UK.

In the long term, I plan to build up my own business doing international trade with luxury hair extensions, so I am currently conducting market research outside of my working hours.

Do you have any advice for prospective students?

I would highly recommend that students take part in activities offered by the School and University, such as those organised by the career service, as communication and organisational skills can be developed through these. I also suggest that they keep an eye out for emails from the Careers Service and Business School to learn about more opportunities.

What is your key takeaway from your time at the School?

My key takeaway from my time at Newcastle University Business School is the importance of developing both professional and personal skills. The Business School not only equipped me with academic knowledge but also helped me develop my communication skills, resilience, and confidence. These are qualities that I have found to be very useful so far in my career.