Member StoriesLisa Kelly

Tell us a bit about your experience before the Digital Marketing Institute

Before studying with the Digital Marketing Institute, I worked for international Blue Chip companies and spent seven years based in continental Europe working in Global and European Regional Marketing roles for a Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company.

In 2011, I moved back to Ireland and took a break from work to spend time with my young family. When I decided to rejoin the workforce, I recognized the digital skills gap in my CV, and knew it needed to be addressed before approaching potential employers. Having invested in the course myself, I wanted to both upskill in this area and demonstrate my intent to potential employers.

What influenced your decision to study in the digital field?

The pace at which digital marketing moves is incredible, and I knew I wanted to join this fast-paced industry. It was clear to me that digital was not an add-on, but rather a fundamental part of the marketing mix needed to meet business objectives.

Why did you choose to study the Professional Diploma with the Digital Marketing Institute?

The Digital Marketing Institute was simply the only option for me – it's all in the name! If you're thinking of upskilling in digital marketing, whether it's a short or long term commitment, then I strongly recommend their courses. Another factor that influenced my decision to study the Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing was the calibre of the lecturers involved and their wealth of industry experience.

Since completing the course in the Digital Marketing Institute, how has your career progressed?

As I mentioned above, I wanted to go back-to- work when I was studying with the Digital Marketing Institute. On completion of my Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing, Oracle Digital (OD) EMEA offered me a role in their Dublin hub.

I was involved in the designing and implementing of sales campaigns for a digital inside sales group across Western Europe. The digital sales team was comprised of approximately 280 people based in Dublin, Amsterdam and Malaga respectively. This role enabled me to learn the business and work with many senior stakeholders. I was recently promoted to a newly created digital marketing role in the newly founded OD Digital Marketing EMEA Apps group.

Is there any advice you would give to new students at the Digital Marketing Institute?

Be clear on what you want to get out of your course before you begin. Decide on which study plan works for you: upskill on short intensive courses every couple of years, or commit to a longer in-depth course over one or two years.

In one word, how would you describe your time in the Digital Marketing Institute?

Fundamental!