What’s your career journey been like up until now? 

I joined Sky in August 2013 on the Product Graduate Scheme, which was my first job in TV. This year gave me a great overview of the TV advertising landscape and I developed a knowledge of AdSmart as well as the analytical tools that are used by the Commercial/Promo Teams.

Following my year on the Graduate Scheme I made the decision that I wanted to be involved with campaign planning to use the analytical tools that I had previously helped to manage. Thankfully I was successful in applying for the position of Assistant Media Planner within the Promo Strategy department.

There have been great training and development opportunities and I’ve worked my way up in the team, firstly to Media Planner and now to Media Planning Manager with 3 direct reports. I’ve worked across a number of different business areas including Sky’s Entertainment channels, Sky Sports, Sky Box Sets and other Partner Channels.

What does a typical day working here look like for you?

The Promo Strategy department are responsible for promoting Sky’s programmes, products and Services through on-air promos, VOD and continuity (planning what the announcers should be talking about in between the programmes!). We support a wide range of business areas which means one minute we can be discussing the best way to promote the launch of a new Sky Original Production, the next we’re working out which promos should sit in the breaks of the Manchester Derby.

We interact with a number of different departments on a daily basis, ranging from the Scheduling and Strategy teams to Marketing and Creative, so conversations can be very varied.

If you’ve been here over one year, how have you made a difference in your role?

When I worked as the Media Planner on Sky Sports, I saw through an idea of running a live Sports promo that broadcast action from a football match across the entertainment channels. This was the first of its kind and it has helped to create an innovative culture in our department where planners are now always looking for new ideas to make their campaigns standout on-air.

What’s been your proudest moment since working here?

Becoming a manager at a relatively early stage in my career. It is what I set as my goal when I joined the department and am delighted to have achieved it!

What’s the most enjoyable thing about your job?

Being able to make decisions on things that go directly on-air, knowing they’re going to be seen by millions of viewers at home.

Describe your work/life balance?

It’s good! As with any job there are times when things are a bit busier and I may have to stay a little late, but the vast majority of the time I’m able to leave on time and enjoy a good work/life balance. Flexible working is allowed meaning if I need to work from home or go to a dentist appointment, it’s never an issue.

What advice would you give to others trying to develop their career?

Bit of an obvious one, but find something you enjoy doing. Also, make sure you’re continuously challenging yourself so that you’re always learning and developing.

An interesting fact/something no one else knows about you?  

I once hitch-hiked to Switzerland as part of a charity competition at University! Also a massive NUFC fan! Howay the Lads!