Rachel is the Customer Optimisation Manager at Vodafone UK and a CIM Marketing Leadership Programme (L7) graduate.
She has worked in marketing for several years and comes from a creative background. She chose this advanced qualification which is the equivalent level to a Master’s degree, to further her leadership skills to help her progress into more senior roles. She wanted to have the skills and capability to lead strategic projects, feel confident in new unknown situations and inspire others around her.
This is exactly what the CIM L7 qualification aims to achieve, as it is designed for senior managers and directors who have the responsibility for strategically leading projects within an organisation.
What did you discover about yourself whilst studying with nesma?
I enjoy taking a step back and looking at the bigger picture, a skill which I’ve learnt through completing the course. I’ve also learnt to trust my own abilities, resulting in increased confidence. At university, time management was never my strongest skill. However, studying has allowed me to prioritise my development and time for learning.
Has studying with nesma helped you in your career?
Through the qualification and tuition, I’ve learnt the key skills that are transferrable into any organisation; through professional and personal mentoring, I’ve built my network and had opportunities to develop my skills further, such as public speaking and increase my wider marketing knowledge and awareness.
What did you enjoy most about studying?
It’s great seeing how your assignments can have a real influence in the workplace. I enjoyed the challenge of having to think differently and ask difficult questions. When a piece of work comes together, it’s a great feeling; additionally, I’ve built lasting relationships and friendships with fellow students and tutors.
What type of things do you do differently now?
When starting a new project, I take a step away from the task at hand and challenge or question various factors, and this helps me identify potential challenges or solutions that the business could consider. My mental agility and ability to respond to change and uncertainty have now become part of my DNA.
What words of advice would you give anyone considering a career in marketing/PR?
Be open to change, stay resilient and always ask questions! Appreciate the ever-changing landscape, become data literate and ensure you know your customer.
What are the significant changes within your industry at present?
The telecommunications market is heavily regulated, and competition from technology providers is growing by the day; building brand awareness and better serving our customers is a key focus area.
What do you enjoy most when you aren’t doing the day job?
I like to keep fit and active, playing cricket for Backworth CC Ladies. I’m also a keen gym goer and runner, having run several half marathons and a couple of marathons for The Lily Foundation, a charity that researches and supports families living with Mitochondrial disease. When I’m not busy playing sports or in the gym, I love spending time with my partner, family and Cocker Spaniel, Woody.
Studying the CIM Marketing Leadership Programme features five unique modules that can be studied as standalone awards or complete 3 to gain the full qualification.
The Modules include;
Contemporary Challenges (Mandatory)
Leading Change (Mandatory)
Consultancy (Elective)
Managing Business Growth (Elective)
Sustainable Transformation in Marketing (Elective)
This high-level qualification is aimed at the experienced marketer working at a strategic marketing or management level, aspiring to move to a boardroom role, or for candidates running their own company wishing to strategically grow their business.
