PBSL Group Apprentice Spotlight – National Apprenticeship Week 2020

For National Apprenticeship Week 2020, we decided to shine the spotlight on our very own digital apprentice, Owen.

Owen is nearing completion of his 18-month apprenticeship here with us in the marketing team at the PBSL Group, so we wanted to pick his brain and find out just what he’s thought of the experience so far.

Take it away, Owen…

When did you begin your apprenticeship with PBSL Group and what is your role?

I began my apprenticeship with The PBSL Group in July of 2018, just three weeks after I finished my last A level exam. My role in the company is Digital Marketing Apprentice and I work within the marketing team to assist the rest of the team with various projects across all types of marketing as well as work on my apprenticeship college projects too.

What experience did you have prior to applying for your apprenticeship at PBSL Group?

I was in my second year of A levels when I applied for my digital marketing apprenticeship at The PBSL Group and was studying Creative Writing, Film Studies and Geography. I did not have any experience working in the marketing or building industry, but I had been working part-time at Primark for just under a year.

Tell us a bit about your first day on the job?

My first day of working at The PBSL Group consisted mostly of induction to working at the company as well as an introduction to some of the various marketing tools and software that we use. Of course, I did feel very nervous at first but quickly realised the friendly and relaxed environment which helped put me at ease straight away.

How has your job and knowledge evolved over your time?

In the beginning, due to the fact I had limited experience, I spent a lot of time training with various members of the marketing team and being given tasks with instructions so I could learn. Over time, I’ve required less and less training and often I am able to set myself tasks or know what needs doing to work towards completion of a project and work on it myself.

What're your favourite aspects of your apprenticeship?

One of my favourite things about my apprenticeship at The PBSL Group is that I’m able to get involved with all different types of marketing and activities, from search engine optimisation to a TV advert. Another thing I’m grateful for is how much everyone else in the marketing team helped me with getting my college work done and building my portfolio.

What further training have you undertaken, or events attended?

Throughout my digital marketing apprenticeship, I have been able to attend various marketing events with other members of the marketing team. These events include Ecommerce Expo in 2018 and Brighton SEO in 2019.

How do you think your apprenticeship with PBSL Group has helped you for your career as well as outside of work?

My apprenticeship at the PBSL Group has started my career in digital marketing and given me lots of work experience as well as qualifications as opposed to just a degree with no experience. It has also made me a more confident and social person in my personal life through the experience of dealing with lots of different people and situations.

When do you complete your apprenticeship and what are your plans for the future?

I am currently set to complete my apprenticeship in March of 2020. After my apprenticeship, I would like to continue working in the marketing team at The PBSL Group to see the company grow even further and work on bigger projects. While remaining in the marketing team I would also like to look for further learning opportunities to gain more qualifications.

Thanks, Owen!

Here at PBSL Group, we employ a number of apprentices across the different departments of the business; from marketing or sales to warehouse or finance. We are always on the lookout for talented people with a hunger to progress their career and knowledge. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!