Josie is the Marketing Communication Specialist at Cargill, a CIM Diploma in Professional Marketing (L6) and a CIM Diploma in Sustainable Marketing (L6) graduate.
The CIM Diploma in Sustainable Marketing was only launched last year, but Josie couldn’t wait to start as sustainability is now a ‘hot topic’ for all industries. She was keen to understand how businesses can change their strategy based on the sustainability needs of the market, and she knew this new module would give her the knowledge to understand how this can be done.
What did you discover about yourself whilst studying with nesma?
Having already completed the Level 6 Diploma 4 years ago, starting this new module made me realise how much I have developed as a marketer. It was great to channel my passion for sustainability into something with a tangible outcome for me and the business I work for.
Has studying with nesma helped you in your career?
The knowledge and practical skills gained from these CIM qualifications have been used daily in my role. The qualifications are widely recognised, and the addition of the sustainability qualification puts me in good stead for future employability and makes me a good asset for my current employer.
What did you enjoy most about studying?
Discussions with the tutor are invaluable to help get your thoughts onto paper, and it’s beneficial to gain the opinion of others. The module content provides a systematic process to improve your understanding, dig into a particular area, and broaden your knowledge.
What type of things do you do differently now?
As a direct result of the strategy outcome of the module, I have already been able to apply an immediate change to our strategy towards sustainability. Additionally, the stakeholder management skills learned have been put into practice, as they are essential to moving forwards on the changes needed, and the research detail required to complete the module has allowed for good knowledge exchange in the industry.
What words of advice would you give anyone considering a career in marketing/PR?
Know your industry. If you have a real passion and a good depth of knowledge for your sector, everything else comes easily. Colleagues have a lot of respect for a marketer who knows the market needs, has good technical knowledge, and can bring fresh ideas to the boardroom. Don’t be scared to push yourself forward for a seat in the boardroom – marketers are vital team players in every business and create a spider web for all other departments.
What are the significant changes within your industry at present?
Market changes towards sustainability: retailers, processors, and government sustainability targets. The amount of press and pressure on agriculture, predominantly focussed on livestock production, means we are at the heart of the change.
What do you enjoy most when you aren’t doing the day job?
I have horses and a dog who keep me busy and out in the fresh air, where I am happiest. After a long week, mostly running around like a headless chicken there is nothing better than getting out in the North Wales mountains with the dog or focussing my energy in competing with my horse. Having something that makes you stop working on time is vital to a happy life!
The CIM Diploma in Sustainable Marketing (L6) aims to deepen your knowledge of how marketing can lead and support the sustainability challenges organisations face. This sustainable marketing course is designed for those in supervisory or operational roles who wish to drive organisational change. All CIM qualifications feature unique modules that can be studied as standalone awards or combined to gain the whole qualification.
