As it's National Apprenticeship Week, we're recognising the achievements of our apprentices, highlighting the diverse range of apprenticeship opportunities available, and encouraging other employees to explore the benefits of this valuable route to skills development and career progression. This week, we had the opportuntity to speak with Joe Aubrey, a Senior Marketing Executive at Coyle Personnel, to learn about his journey as an apprentice.
Joe joined Coyle in October 2018 as a Marketing Assistant apprentice and has since gone on to complete not one, but three apprenticeships, providing him with a wealth of knowledge and propelling him to his current position. In this Q&A, Joe shares his experiences, insights, and advice for those considering the apprenticeship route.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to pursuing an apprenticeship in marketing?
"I left school at 18 after completing sixth form, where I studied Business Studies and IT. I then enrolled at the University of Reading to pursue a degree in computer science but decided to drop out shortly before completing my first year.
My first apprenticeship opportunity arose through a referral from a close friend in the IT department. Despite lacking prior experience in Marketing and knowledge about the recruitment industry, I seized the chance to gain valuable work experience and learn something new. I started the apprenticeship in November 2018 and successfully completed it in September 2020.
Subsequently, I embarked on another apprenticeship with Coyle Personnel. In February 2021, I started my Level 4 Marketing Executive course, which concluded in July 2022. I then undertook my third apprenticeship, beginning my Level 6 Marketing Manager course in February 2023. I successfully completed this in November 2024, achieving a distinction."
What is it about marketing that interests you most?
"The great thing about Marketing is that the job isn’t always the same, each day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. I enjoy the aspect of being creative and having to find new ways of doing tasks and the constant need to improve on what I’ve done previously. Marketing also has the expectation of being able to work well as a team and have great communications skills, something I wasn’t great at doing when I first started, but over the last few years I have continued to build on these skills."
How have you found your apprenticeships so far? Do you enjoy the educational element of it?
"I've found immense enjoyment in each of my apprenticeships so far. With each new opportunity, the demands on my time during working hours have gradually increased, presenting an engaging challenge of balancing my day-to-day responsibilities with coursework requirements. The structure of the apprenticeships strikes an excellent balance between assignments and workshops, providing ample opportunities for learning and practical application as I advance.
The monthly workshops have been particularly valuable, affording me the chance to dedicate an entire day to focusing on the course content. Interacting with other apprentices from various companies across the country has enriched my understanding of different marketing approaches and how marketing strategies vary depending on the nature of the business. These exchanges have been enlightening and have broadened my perspective on the field of marketing."
What about your role? What are the key responsibilities and how well related is it to your apprenticeship?
"In my current role, my responsibilities revolve around managing our branding, designing artwork for merchandise, creating brochures and flyers, and enhancing our website. This apprenticeship has a strong focus on project management and improving communication among different teams within the company. It constantly challenges me to discover new approaches to tasks, ultimately refining my skills and enhancing my ability to excel in my job."
Do you have friends/family who have also explored the possibility of an apprenticeship? Would you recommend it to others?
"I have had a few friends and family that have taken the opportunity to do an apprenticeship, and they have all go on to have amazing careers. I would highly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone that’s unsure about going to university or struggling with the idea of moving into a new career that they have no prior knowledge of. Apprenticeships give you the ability to study at your own place, you are not required to finish the course on strict deadline giving you plenty of flexibility in your studies."
Upon completion of your current apprenticeship, do you intend on continuing your studies?
"Absolutely, if the opportunity to further my studies presents itself, I will eagerly seize it. I'm committed to pushing myself to achieve the highest grades possible in these courses, as the sense of accomplishment serves as a significant motivator for me. Continuously striving to enhance my understanding of marketing and improve my proficiency in my day-to-day tasks is a top priority. I'm constantly seeking avenues to broaden my knowledge and skills in marketing, as I believe in the value of ongoing learning and growth."
How has Coyle Personnel supported you with your apprenticeship?
"I must express my gratitude for the unwavering support Coyle Personnel has extended throughout all three of my courses. They took a chance on me despite my lack of experience, investing both time and resources in my training and development. Additionally, I'm fortunate to have an incredible manager who consistently offers support and flexibility, enabling me to focus on my coursework while excelling in my role."
Joe's journey demonstrates the value of apprenticeships and how they can lead to not only a successful career but also personal and professional growth. His journey from apprentice to Senior Marketing Executive at Coyle Personnel highlights the value of combining practical experience with structured learning.
As National Apprenticeship Week draws to a close, we hope Joe's experience inspires others to explore the diverse opportunities that apprenticeships offer. Whether you're a recent school leaver, considering a career change, or an employer looking to develop talent, apprenticeships provide a proven route to success. Coyle Personnel are committed to supporting our employees to reach their full potential and contribute to the growth of our business and the wider economy.