Investing in the future – local PR firm takes on its first apprentice

Derby PR and communications agency Nielsen McAllister has appointed its first apprentice, providing a new route into the industry for young people interested in a career in PR.

Molly Norman has joined the business as an apprentice account executive. The 19-year-old from Heanor was, until recently, reading Law at university, but her long held interest in digital marketing and creative writing led her to realise that her future lay in another direction.

With the help of Derby training provider althaus, which specialises in digital qualifications, Molly has begun her 18-month apprenticeship at Nielsen McAllister, alongside studying for a Digital Marketing Level 3 qualification.

Within the agency, Molly’s role will be very hands-on, supporting other team members across a range of client projects to gain practical experience that supports and complements her course work.

Molly said: “I’m delighted to have joined Nielsen McAllister and to be learning about the world of PR and communications. I’ve been made truly welcome since day one and have already got involved in daily work activities, preparing copy and materials for social media and even writing my first blog for the business!

“I’m really looking forward to building my career here and using the insight from my apprenticeship training to help further develop and enhance digital marketing techniques that will benefit our clients.”

Nielsen McAllister director Simon Wildash said Molly’s appointment has had an immediate impact on the business. “Apprenticeships are not that common in the PR sector, and new entrants are usually at graduate level,” he explained. “However, we felt the time was right to offer an opportunity for a young person to start their career and bring their enthusiasm and skills into our agency via a different route.

“Even in the few short weeks since joining, Molly has already had an impact, becoming fully immersed in our business and contributing positively to both our output and internal culture. She is a welcome addition to our growing team.”

Waqas Matloob, digital skills coach at althaus, is pleased at this appointment in a previously underserved sector. “I’m looking forward to supporting Molly on her digital marketing journey with what is clearly a progressive business,” he commented.

“Digital marketing is increasingly important in today’s world and the skills Molly will gain through her training at althaus, combined with her practical experience at Nielsen McAllister, will undoubtedly set her in good stead for her PR and marketing career.”

Based on Green Lane in the St Peters Quarter, Nielsen McAllister recently expanded both its capacity and sector reach with the announcement of three new appointments earlier this year. The agency is also recruiting for an account manager to support its future growth.

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