Alex J.
About me
| Alex J. | |
| Politics, Economics and Philosophy | |
| Philosophy & Politics | |
| Undergraduate | |
| James | |
| 2005 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Head of Communications, Media and Campaigns | |
| GMB Union | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Advertising, marketing and PR | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2016 |
More about Alex
Like this profile?
Add this profile to your favourites so you can return to it later from your account.
A day in the life of a Head of Communications, Media and Campaigns in the United Kingdom
Think more carefully about how you use the extra-curricular opportunities available to you, take an interest in other disciplines, keep a record of the skills you are learning, practice physical and mental self-care.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
GMB is a trade union consisting of 600,000 members working across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK. We campaign to defend, extend and promote rights at work and beyond. We have 600 staff and more than 10,000 workplace representatives.
What do you do?
I am the head of communications, media and campaigns - responsible for PR and media relations, marketing campaign planning and delivery, social media, video, publications and member communications.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I worked in political media from when I graduated - but have since worked in a variety of communications roles across the voluntary sector. I've been head of communications in three different organisations over the last seven years. I completed an MA in Political Communications while working.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
I was quite naive about the jobs that existed when I graduated - I had wanted to be a lawyer, a teacher - but by the time I graduated I wanted to be a journalist or work in politics.
Describe your most memorable day at work
Every day is different and that's what I enjoy about the job - the most memorable ones are when you feel you've made a difference and you can see the impact of your work.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
My job can be very challenging - it involves fast-changing environments, making quick judgment calls and juggling multiple priorities. Lots of highs and lows.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
It's quite often long hours and involves being on call - but work is in phases, sometimes very intense. I wouldn't do it if I wasn't passionate about the work - and the mission.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I wrote for Nouse but not as much as I should have. Politics and LGBT socs. I worked in a vegetarian cafe in term time and then full time in the summers - which was a job I loved.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I haven't decided yet but I'll know when it's time for a new chapter.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Think more carefully about how you use the extra-curricular opportunities available to you, take an interest in other disciplines, keep a record of the skills you are learning, practice physical and mental self-care. Learn from your teachers as people as well as professionals.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
PR and communications, voluntary sector, campaigns, charities - getting work experience, applying for jobs, further study, professional qualifications. Anything that's helpful.
Next steps...
If you like the look of Alex’s profile, the next steps are down to you! You can send Alex a message to find out more about their career journey. If you feel you would benefit from more in-depth conversations, ask Alex to be your mentor.