International Marketing and Business student Jordan Studd has successfully secured a position on a graduate scheme with one of Europe’s largest food and drink groups.
In a year full of uncertainty and the unexpected, Jordan described his relief at landing the role before even finishing his degree at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU): “To be told you're employable before you even graduate is an incredible achievement, although it requires dedication and overcoming rejection, it’s worth it,” he said.
The 22-year-old from Leicestershire will be joining Princes Group in Liverpool, the company behind many household name brands such as Flora, Branston’s, Napolina, Princes Tuna and Batchelors.
The two-year commercial graduate scheme will see Jordan work in different departments including marketing, buying and account management, building on the core skills and principles of marketing taught at DMU.
He said: “The great thing about my course is the balance between theoretical knowledge, which broadens your understanding and appreciation for the subject, and applied modules, which are closely connected to industry and prepare you for employment.”
Jordan will be working in the Royal Liver Building, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, once government guidelines on working from home have been relaxed. Until then, he will join the group remotely working from home.
He said: “The last few months at DMU have really instilled me with a sense of responsibility. When teaching moved online it shifted the dynamic and you had to take ownership for your learning, which will be very similar to working from home.
“The engagement from our tutors and lecturers during this time has been the same as if we were still on campus. We’ve had so many video calls to keep in touch and get support, and their virtual doors are always open,” he said.
During lockdown, Jordan managed to gain a new qualification through DMU and is now a proudly certified member of the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing, a professional body for marketers.
He said: “It’s really quite an impressive achievement that we’ve managed to complete this qualification through online teaching from start to finish. The course was delivered through Zoom meetings, discussions and Q&As to explore the material as a group.
“It’s actually been one of the highlights of my final year at university.”
Another university highlight for Jordan was his experience with DMU Global: “In my first year at DMU I was able to work in New York as part of the Marketing Decision Making module, which was such a rewarding and exciting opportunity.
“My degree programme has an emphasis on marketing in an international perspective, so it was invaluable to gain experience of working in a different country,” he said.
Jordan also made the most of opportunities in the UK and decided to gain industry experience through a placement year. He secured a role in the international e-commerce department at the Debenhams head office in London.
He said: “The knowledge and understanding that you can get from a placement year is second to none. You build your professional network and gain real-world experience which will set you up for life in your chosen industry.”
Describing the support from the faculty placement team as ‘outstanding’, Jordan also recommended working closely with the tutors at DMU to improve employability.
“I have benefited so much from the advice, insights and incredibly supportive network of my tutors, in particular Associate Professor David Gordon.
“Take advantage of every feedback session, assessment day preparation, tip and trick that each lecturer can give you. Many have strong networks of former colleagues and previous students who can help your graduate job search,” he said.
Posted on Thursday 9 July 2020