This session was chaired by Tom Ledgard, Head of Placements and Graduate Outcomes at the University of Leicester. The panel featured Arianna Coseschi, a security analyst at Octopus Energy; Beth Fairgrieve, a design engineer at Ooni; and Mia Davies, a brand administrative assistant at Gymshark. They shared their insights on starting and accelerating careers in fast-growing companies.
Insights from Octopus Energy
Arianna Coseschi discussed her attraction to Octopus Energy due to its employee-friendly culture and environmental ethos. She emphasised the importance of upskilling within the company and seizing opportunities as they arise. Arianna noted, “Working for a private company offers many benefits and opportunities. It’s important to take advantage of the opportunities that align with your interests.”
Thriving in a dynamic environment at Gymshark
Mia Davies shared her transition from the public sector to Gymshark, highlighting the dynamic and progressive environment. She spoke about the benefits of a less formal work culture and the importance of making connections across the company. Mia advised, “Make friends with every single department because you are going to need a lot of favours. Use your first week to book in one-to-ones and go for coffee with people you will work closely with.”
Finding the right fit at Ooni
Beth Fairgrieve reflected on her journey at Ooni, noting the importance of aligning with the company’s ethos and the benefits of working in a smaller, growing company. She shared her experience of speculative applications and the importance of showing passion and perseverance. Beth advised, “Don’t get disheartened if you don’t get a response when applying. Express that you’re passionate about the company and let your personality show through.”
3 top tips from the webinar
- For networking: Engage with colleagues by spending time in the office, attending social events, and participating in group activities. Building relationships face-to-face can enhance your network significantly.
- For personal growth: Be proactive in seeking opportunities for upskilling and development. Take the initiative to learn new skills and engage in projects that interest you.
- For job applications: Research the company’s ethos and align it with your values. When applying, ensure you can provide examples that match the job specifications and be persistent in speculative applications.
Conclusion
The webinar provided essential insights into fast-tracking careers at leading companies. The panellists highlighted the importance of networking, continuous learning, and aligning with company values. The key takeaway is to be proactive, seize opportunities, and maintain a willingness to learn. As Mia Davies aptly summarised, “You don’t have to have it all figured out. Your first job is unlikely to be your last job.”