Jordan Marston - Digital Marketing Manager, Jam Marketing.
Did you always envisage a career in the Marketing and Media Industry?
Honestly? No! Like many people, I sort of stumbled into marketing. I’ve always been creative and curious – the type to ask “Why does that work?” when seeing an ad or campaign – but I didn’t grow up thinking I’d be running a marketing agency. What I did know, though, was that I loved solving problems and making things better, and that naturally led me down this path.
What has been your career path so far?
I started off with a background in computer systems and website building, which gave me a really solid technical foundation. From there, I worked within financial services – a completely different beast, but it taught me the importance of structure, compliance, and data-driven thinking. It was only when I started helping JAM with their digital presence “on the side” that I realised how much I loved the creative side of things .
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far?
Like many small businesses, COVID hit us hard. Everything felt uncertain – clients paused projects, budgets disappeared, and we had to quickly rethink how we operated. But it also taught us a lot. We learned how to be adaptable, how to communicate better, and how to build stronger relationships. Rebuilding after that time wasn’t easy, but it made us sharper, leaner, and more appreciative of every win – no matter how small.
Who do you respect most in your industry?
Without sounding too clichéd, it has to be my mam, Jackie Marston. From a young age, I’ve watched her pour everything into the business – navigating the highs and lows with unwavering determination and always conducting herself with integrity. Her work ethic, resilience, and passion for the industry have been a constant source of inspiration to me. Jackie is well known and highly respected across the region, and that reputation has been earned through years of dedication, commitment, and genuine love for what she does.
Which fictional media character can you most relate to?
Probably Chandler Bing from Friends. Bit of sarcasm, bit of chaos, but also secretly trying to keep everything together behind the scenes! Plus, no one really knows what he does – and that sums up marketing sometimes, doesn’t it?
What is your greatest strength?
I’d say it’s being able to see both the creative and the commercial side of things. I love the big ideas, but I also love the data and the “why.” That helps us create marketing that doesn’t just look good – it works.
And your biggest weakness?
I’m a perfectionist. I find it hard to switch off and not keep tweaking things until they’re “just right.” But I’m learning to let go a little more done is better than perfect, as they say!
What has been your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement has to be taking over the family business. It was never the career path I originally envisioned, but as the saying goes, everything happens for a reason – and I truly wouldn’t have it any other way. Stepping into a role with so much history and meaning, and making my parents proud in the process, is something I hold incredibly close. Carrying the legacy forward and building on what they started gives me even more drive and determination for the future
What are your future career aspirations?
I want to grow JAM into one of the most trusted small marketing agencies in the North. Not the biggest – but the one that people recommend without hesitation. I’d love to build a team that shares our values and genuinely enjoys the work we do. It’s not about chasing awards – it’s about doing good work for good people.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?
“Don’t try to be everything to everyone.” It’s tempting to say yes to every opportunity when you’re starting out, but the real growth comes when you understand your strengths and lean into them. That’s when you start attracting the right kind of clients – the ones you can really help.
How do you see your industry evolving in the next 10 years?
Marketing will continue to become even more digital – no surprises there. AI will play a huge role in automation, content generation, and analytics. But I don’t think it’ll ever replace the human touch. People still buy from people, and they want to connect with stories, not just strategies. The key will be learning how to use the tech to enhance creativity, not replace it.
How do you like to unwind?
Spending time with family, a good Netflix binge, and walking the dog (even when it’s freezing outside!). I also love switching off from screens now and again – a phonefree Sunday is bliss!
www.jamprintsmarketing.co.uk