Meet Kate Thomson

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Kate, Head of Marketing for IT business, Technology Services Group (TSG), returned to nesma to study her second qualification with us. This time it was the CIM Diploma in Professional Digital Marketing (L6), equivalent to an undergraduate degree and ideal for those in management roles.

Why did you choose this qualification?

I wanted to progress my career with a well-respected qualification that would help me tie together my strategic and digital skills. The flexibility nesma offered for doing this in my own time and module-by-module was really attractive.

What did you discover about yourself?

I’m more confident in my marketing and business knowledge – old and new. The credibility of qualifications ensures you stay up-to-date with new and emerging marketing trends.

Has studying with nesma helped you in your career?

Absolutely! I achieved Certified Digital Marketing Professional status (from the Digital Marketing Institute) with nesma before moving on to my CIM qualification. During the latter stages of my diploma, I took a role with an exciting organisation that strongly supports the progression of its people. I credit the qualification and support of nesma’s exceptional tutors with providing me with the confidence to take that leap.

What did you enjoy most about studying?

Whilst study was all virtual due to the pandemic, online access to learning materials and live sessions with the fantastic tutors helped me feel supported. A key highlight has been engaging with other marketers and learning more about their experiences and industries.

What type of things do you do differently now?

I take the time to plan out end to end projects/ campaigns with data-led objectives. As a result, my team and I have more conviction in the decisions we make.

What words of advice would you give anyone considering a career in marketing/PR?

Make the time to fully understand how your organisation and industry operates – this is essential for any marketer.

What are the significant changes within your industry at present?

The pandemic disrupted how many organisations support employees working from home in the long term. For the IT services industry, enabling customer employee productivity whilst maintaining security is high on the agenda.

What do you enjoy most when you aren’t doing the day job?

The pandemic threw me into an unexpected love of running (albeit very slowly) and working on DIY house improvements.


The CIM Diploma in Professional Digital Marketing (L6) focuses on improving the entire digital experience, optimising all channels, and gaining insights to make informed strategic decisions.