Meet Meryl Bentham

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Meryl is the Marketing Manager at Gardner Aerospace, she has completed the CIM Certificate in Professional Marketing (Level 4) and moved straight onto the CIM Diploma in Professional Marketing (Level 6)! She moved into the marketing role at Gardner Aerospace, a top 100 global aerospace company when GA acquired Northern Aerospace, where she had been working after relocating to the North East from London.

What sparked your interest in marketing qualifications?

As a chartered company secretary, I have previously been involved in all aspects of the business process, including marketing but I had no formal marketing qualifications. My new role at Gardner Aerospace held many exciting opportunities so back in January 2019, with my grown-up daughters both in University, I decided the time was right to embark on the journey to becoming qualified with CIM, which is what led me to nesma.

How has studying with nesma helped you in your career?

Studying with nesma has helped me to focus on the real issues that need to be addressed within the company. It has given me the confidence to contribute and play a genuine part in the future of the business. It has also helped me to engage the right external partners to support the marketing process within Gardner Aerospace.

The Interaction with other students has been invaluable, helping to transfer theory into the real world. Studying with nesma and participating in CIM events has enabled me to access the local marketing community and I have been able to develop good relationships with others in similar roles within the area.

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

In just over a year I received the Certificate in Professional Marketing. I decided to move straight up to Level 6 and aim to qualify with the Diploma in Professional Marketing by June 2021, which I know will really assist my progression at Gardner Aerospace.

It’s been a long time since I’ve studied, but I’ve found that just like riding a bike once you get back on, it is fine! Marketing is such a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, and with the CIM qualifications and nesma’s support behind me, I feel confident that I can match the pace.


A CIM qualification at Level 4 builds on your tactical marketing skills and a CIM qualification at Level 6 develops your strategic marketing skills enabling you to progress your marketing career and perform professionally at a management level.

When you graduate from the CIM Diploma in Professional Marketing which is equivalent to a degree you get to mark the occasion with a graduation ceremony in London.


If you are considering taking a CIM or CIPR Qualification, why not contact Lucy Davidson on 07734 222 254 or Lucy.Davidson@nesma.co.uk for more information.