Over 100 young people given a head start in marketing by Chippenham firm

Over 100 people from across the UK have been given a head start in their marketing careers with an internship at a Chippenham firm.

Having already successfully run 50 placements through the government’s Kickstart scheme in 2020, Purpol Marketing has recruited 57 young people to its 2021 programme.

On Friday, Purpol Marketing founder Denise O’Leary spoke at an event organised by Chippenham MP Michelle Donelan, and attended by the minister for employment, Mims Davies.

“We had such amazing feedback from the first kickstart group that we are delighted to be running the scheme again so even more young people can benefit,” said Denise.

“We have recruited young talent from Wiltshire and across the UK again this time.”

The digital marketing assistant roles – which are conducted remotely – are designed to give the interns experience in many aspects of marketing from marketing strategy and social media, websites and SEO.

The interns develop skills such as market research, creating graphics, writing white papers and blogs as well as how to generate PR and win bids.

They also learn about visual marketing, the impact of colour and shape on branding, and why ‘tone of voice’ is so important in marketing messaging.

Career development is fully supported with access to the unique ‘Kickstart my Career’ online course created by the previous cohort of Kickstart students and supported with webinars and mentoring.

Denise spoke about her journey as a Kickstart employer and why she is so passionate about promoting the scheme during the event held at the Neeld Hall, Chippenham and attended by local businesses who wanted to learn more about the scheme.

The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to create new job placements for 16 to 24 year olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of long term unemployment.

Employers of all sizes can apply for funding and Denise  has been speaking at events across the country to encourage other employers to consider the Kickstart Scheme.

More information can be found on the Kickstart Scheme at https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme