One thing every business has in common, whether it’s a huge corporation, an SME or a start-up; they all have their first day.
So after 20 (or so) years of working within the leisure, hospitality, betting and sports industries I’ve worked my way through the corporate ladder of marketing roles from exec to manager to director, and now I’ve found myself this year facing the anticipation of my next steps…setting up my own business and having my very own first day!
In 2005, after achieving my first CIM qualification I decided to leave my secure role of Marketing Manager at a health club and venture off for a couple of years to travel the world. Best thing I ever did, not only did I have the most amazing time with my bestie, but I also found that on my last leg of the trip, the baggy snowboarding styles had definitely had their day and I actually craved the corporate world and a power suit and black leather folder, it was 2007!
So returning to the UK, I set myself a goal; get a marketing job with a car, phone and an iMac and I achieved it pretty quickly and felt like I was working in an office set up like the one from Devil Wears Prada…without the bossy boss! From then my career took off as I worked my way higher and into new companies with different challenges and cultures. Adding a couple more CIM’s to my portfolio of qualifications along the way, I felt I’d achieved a great amount.
Fast forward a few more years…with 5 years experience at Director level under my belt, 3 CIMs and a desire to move higher and aim for board level, the unknown happened; a global pandemic! Who knew what chaos and disruption this would cause the world. I do not need to elaborate on our current lives as we speak, so I will focus on the positives that can come out of a pretty awful situation.
The time was right to take that leap of faith, and to become my own boss! To pack all the 20 years of experiences, skills and knowledge into something for me…my own personal achievement that I would be in control of. The chance to work with multiple clients, in varying sectors and offer them all my expertise and advice in short spells as I dip in and out of various companies.
So I now begin my new challenge; in my newly transformed studio office and I can’t wait! It’s been a tough year for most people, and I’m sure we’re all ready to see the back of 2020, but I’m a firm believer in making the most out of any situation and it’s not about what life throws at you, it’s how you handle it.
Stay strong, stay positive as brighter days are coming.
Rachel White DipM FCIM
Managing Director
Studio White Marketing Consultancy Ltd.
