North East-based Social, Digital & Design agency Curtis Gabriel are set to welcome their latest graduates to the business over the next few weeks.
We sat down with two senior members of the Curtis Gabriel team to find out how their careers have developed at one of the North East’s fastest growing Digital Marketing agencies.
Jonny Shafto, Operations Manager
What was your first role at Curtis Gabriel and how have you progressed?
I originally joined the company as an intern on a temporary basis upon completion of my Journalism degree at Northumbria University. Fast forward two years and I’ve progressed through several different positions within the company, where I’m now heading up the operational side of the business as Operations Manager.
What do you enjoy about working at Curtis Gabriel?
Working alongside such a personable, funny and creative bunch of people is by far the greatest aspect of working at Curtis Gabriel. This, together with the ability to be able to showcase our creativity whilst delivering exceptional results for our clients all-year-round.
What skills have you developed since you first started at Curtis Gabriel?
Since joining the company just over two years ago, I’d say that my leadership, problem solving and communication skills have improved the most to date. Combining these skills have allowed me to develop both personally and professionally.
What advice would you give graduates looking to start their career in Social Media & Digital Marketing?
If you’re truly passionate about embarking on a career in the Social Media & Digital Marketing industry, do not be afraid to take up a bit-part role at first. It may be an age-old saying, but by ‘getting your foot in the door’, you’re able to prove to your employer that you are the real deal and strengthen your chances of a full-time role.
Abbie Walker, Head of Section Hospitality
What was your first role at Curtis Gabriel and how have you progressed?
My first role at Curtis Gabriel was as a Social Media Executive. After a couple of months, I quickly progressed into the role of Account Manager, which was a huge step for me and a very exciting one having just recently graduated university after studying Multimedia Journalism. As an Account Manager, I worked with a number of clients from the Hospitality sector which I really enjoyed, and after a year, I was promoted into my current role as the Section Manager for our Hospitality division. My current role is fantastic, I love my team and it is great to be able to support them on a daily basis.
What do you enjoy about working at Curtis Gabriel?
Every part of my job at Curtis Gabriel is fantastic. I could list lots of reasons but my top three would most definitely have to be 1) Working in social media – I love how creative we can be for each and every one of our clients. 2) Our team is brilliant – everyone helps each other, and we all get along really well. 3) The clients we work with – I really enjoy speaking to clients and getting to know their business, but most importantly, I love contributing to making their social media presence unique and successful.
What advice would you give graduates looking to start their career in Social Media & Digital Marketing?
Be passionate, demonstrate your creativity and be keen to learn. A job in Social Media & Digital Marketing is very rewarding – if you enjoy writing and being creative then you will love your role and be very successful at it.
2019 has already been a year of significant growth and expansion for Curtis Gabriel and we are always looking for talented individuals to join our teams in Newcastle, Leeds & London. For more information visit www.curtisgabriel.com
