As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we are shining a spotlight on our Marketing Executive, Niamh Dougan, who is currently studying for her Digital Marketing Degree alongside her full time role at Port of Blyth!
Niamh joined the Port in 2022 as a Business Admin Apprentice working for our training division, Port Training Services, before transitioning over to the Marketing Department at Port of Blyth in July 2023. Niamh has gone from strength to strength since joining the Commercial Team, having achieved Advanced Apprentice of the Year at Newcastle College’s Apprenticeship Awards in February 2024, followed by the successful completion of her apprenticeship with Distinction in May 2024.
Niamh was then offered the opportunity to study a degree apprenticeship in Digital Marketing to further enhance her skills and knowledge to support the Commercial Team, fully funded by the Port of Blyth, which she started in September 2024. As a result of Niamh’s hard work and determination, she was then offered a permanent position as Marketing Executive shortly after.
We asked Niamh some questions about her current role and what it is like to undertake a degree apprenticeship, which she answers below:
What is involved in your role as Marketing Executive?
My role typically involves:
- Supporting the management of our company social media channels and websites.
- Supporting the organisation of events.
- Leading on internal communications, in particular, our health & wellbeing campaigns.
- Supporting with external communications such as press releases etc.
- Assisting the marketing team in the planning and execution of marketing campaigns.
- Supporting the production of branded materials.
- Communicating and building relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
What is it like to study a Degree Apprenticeship?
I couldn’t recommend a Degree Apprenticeship enough! It offers the perfect balance of learning and earning, allowing you to apply the skills and knowledge gained during your studies directly in the workplace.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for a Degree Apprenticeship?
I’d say go for it! Degree Apprenticeships across a number of fields are becoming readily available, and they provide the opportunity to gain invaluable work experience with an employer, whilst also developing your theoretical knowledge of a subject, to perform better within your role.
Why choose to work at the Port of Blyth?
Kickstarting my career with the Port of Blyth was the best decision I ever made! From starting out as an apprentice to becoming a full-time employee, I’ve had some amazing experiences, which have really built my confidence and supported me to progress into the position I am in today. I love working at the Port of Blyth and hope to continue in my role as Marketing Executive upon completion of my degree.
Working at Port of Blyth opens up a number of opportunities. To start your career with Port of Blyth today, follow this link to view our latest vacancies: Careers – Port of Blyth | Leading UK Offshore Energy Support Base
