In uncertain times, it is more important than ever to share experience, insights and advice with your peers so we can all learn from one another. With this in mind, we are having conversations with members across various sectors to understand the importance of life long learning within the marketing industry, and their advice for people starting out their careers.
For this week’s instalment in the series we spoke to one of the recipients of the scholarship for the MSc in Digital Marketing and Analytics, Stephanie Bell, Senior Brand Manager, Healthy Food Division Western Europe, Raisio.
If you are a member who would like to feature in the In Conversation with series please send an email to editor@mii.ie
MII: Hi Stephanie, congratulations on receiving the scholarship for the MSc in Digital Marketing and Analytics. Why did you decide to do this programme?
I completed the Diploma in Strategic Digital Marketing with the marketing institute in 2020 and this re-ignited my passion and desire to really master the area of digital marketing. In previous roles, a huge amount of this work was outsourced agency side so my aspiration in joining the MSc programme is to further build my knowledge and skillset in this area, gaining invaluable practical experience that will allow me to lead a digital marketing strategy with a hands on approach.
How do you hope this programme will impact your current role and career development?
Like many businesses post-pandemic who are cautious in the current economic environment, rationalising marketing investment will continue to be a key challenge across both long- and short-term marketing spend. Demonstrating marketing effectiveness to senior management is an essential skillset for marketing professionals.
The evolving media landscape in Ireland has reinforced the need to embrace digital marketing – I firmly believe this is now crucial for brands who want to sustain profitable long term growth. Brands are shifting to an increased online digital presence, now is the time more than ever to incorporate digital marketing to endure a successful marketing career.
What are you looking to achieve from the programme?
By doing the MSc programme, I will not only grow my network among similar growth minded marketing professionals, but also absorb the expertise from some of Irelands finest marketers who will deliver the MSc programme. I am particularly looking forward to stepping out of the day job into the classroom, to really open my mind and explore new marketing concepts.
How important is lifelong learning?
Over the course of my career, persistent professional development has always been vital to me, leading to my career progression over the last 12 years. While on the job learning is always beneficial, the opportunity to incessantly challenge your mind outside your comfort zone and learn is a positive investment for the future.
What is your one piece of advice for marketers starting off on their career journey?
‘Learning never exhausts the mind’ Leonardo Da Vinci
If you are a member who would like to feature in the In Conversation with series please send an email to editor@mii.ie
