INTRODUCTION
Here at Gray Dawes, we’re proud to have supported a number of apprentices as they make their first steps in their career. Over the past couple of years, we’ve welcomed apprentices to our Marketing, IT, Finance and Operations departments.
This week marks #NationalApprenticeshipWeek, and to celebrate our apprentices and the achievements they’ve made, we wanted to share their stories and how their apprenticeships have helped them start their careers in the business travel industry. Whether you’re considering starting an apprenticeship yourself, or are interested to know the benefits an apprentice can bring to your business, then read on!
MARTHA MEREDITH –
BUSINESS TRAVEL CONSULTANT APPRENTICE
Tell us a little bit more about what your role involves on a daily basis?
I action various rail, hotel and flight requests from a range of our clients via email or telephone. I deal with any queries that come in and help process refunds, exchanges and travel cancellations.
What are you enjoying most about your apprenticeship?
The opportunity to actually learn about the industry first-hand whilst gaining valuable experience.
What would you say to someone else thinking of applying for an apprenticeship as an alternative to going to University?
Do it! – you will not gain any experience whilst sitting in a lecture! In the future, you will be valued for your knowledge and experience, especially at such a young age.
CONNOR DANYLENKO –
MAKRETING APPRENTICE
What does your role involve?
Using my skills in graphic design and photography to put together artwork for different areas of the business. I create videos to be shared internally, on social media or on our website, and have started learning about website design and email marketing.
What drew you to apply for an apprenticeship at Gray Dawes?
I started out at Gray Dawes last Summer by completing a work placement, and really enjoyed the positive working environment – I was working with people that I felt could help me learn and develop my skills. Applying for my apprenticeship was a natural progression for me to take the next step in my career.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others looking to get into a marketing career?
Definitely! I think an apprenticeship is a great alternative to going to University, as it allows you to get straight into the working environment, doing exactly what you know you want to do, whilst continuing to learn at the same time.
JOE COLLINGS –
FORMER MARKETING NOW MARKETING ASSISTANT
How long ago did you complete your apprenticeship with Gray Dawes?
I started my year-long apprenticeship in October 2017 and was afterwards offered a full-time role as a Marketing Assistant.
What did your apprenticeship teach you that’s helped you in your current role?
I learnt so many helpful marketing techniques that I now use in my job on a daily basis, it’s also taught me how to communicate properly in the workplace and become more confident in an office environment.
What drew you to apply for an apprenticeship at Gray Dawes?
I noticed online that Gray Dawes were hiring for a marketing apprentice, and through researching discovered that they were a respected travel management company. At my interview I discovered that they were also looking to rebrand and redesign their website, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity for me to learn and contribute to the business immediately in a big way.
OUTRO
If you would like to read more about our past and present apprentices, you can find out more of their testimonials here. If you’re interested in applying for an apprenticeship with Gray Dawes, keep an eye out on our social media and careers page for our latest opportunities.
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OUR PURPOSE
At the heart of everything we do are our people. We don’t just mean just our employees, but our clients and suppliers too.
At Gray Dawes Group we strive to create an environment which recognises and nurtures a healthy work/life balance – for our staff and clients alike.
By providing our customers with better travel management, they’re able to achieve what they need to by working flexibly, whether in the office, at home or around the globe.
