Horizon Works looks to the future with appointment of first digital marketing apprentice

We have taken on our first digital marketing apprentice, Jack Weir, as part of our commitment to developing marketing talent and to support our long-term growth plans.

The apprenticeship programme is being delivered through Darlington-based Baltic Apprenticeships, which specialises in digital marketing and IT apprenticeships.

During the programme, Jack will work alongside Horizon Works’ marketing specialists and gain hands-on experience in a range of digital marketing disciplines, including website development, e-marketing, social media marketing and SEO.

Jack will also learn how digital marketing is integrated into marketing and brand strategies, and gain valuable insight into B2B marketing in our core sectors, which include manufacturing and engineering, energy, technology, automotive, security and defence, and the chemicals and process industries.

Samantha Vassallo, managing director of Horizon Works, said: “We’re delighted that Jack has joined Horizon Works as our first marketing apprentice.

“Digital marketing is a key focus area for Horizon Works and we are offering expanded capabilities in this area: it’s therefore important to us to strengthen our team’s specialisms in this field, and build for the long-term through bringing apprentices such as Jack on board.

“We also feel that it’s vital to give young people in our region the opportunity to grow and develop, and learn practical marketing skills in an agency environment, which complements the theoretical elements of their education.

“Jack has already shown great passion for digital marketing during his first few weeks with us and we’re very proud to be helping him launch his career in marketing. I am sure he will be a fantastic addition to our team.”

Jack Weir said: “Before I left college I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do, but I then discovered the marketing career path and was completely hooked. It provided a varied scope of work, a chance to develop my interest in media and the opportunity to express my creative ideas.

“Baltic Apprenticeships helped me to find a company in which I could develop my skills and marketing career, and Horizon Works has already provided me with so many great opportunities and insights which will help me progress.

“Working alongside skilled and experienced colleagues has given me the chance to see first-hand how work is produced for our clients. It’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Rebecca Lamb, client engagement specialist at Baltic Apprenticeships, added: “Working with Horizon Works has been an amazing experience for our teams here at Baltic. It has given Jack the chance to thrive and succeed as a valued member of the team. It is especially fantastic to work with an employer who supports our higher wage pledge: Horizon Works clearly recognises the huge benefits of investing in an apprentice.

“As Baltic specialises in Tech and Digital apprenticeships, we help to create an entry point into a booming sector that is continuously impacted by growing skills gaps. Through Jack’s apprenticeship, Horizon Works is not only growing its own talent and future-proofing its business against such skills gaps, but is also supporting Jack as he works hard to become a qualified Digital Marketing professional.

“We can’t wait to continue this relationship and to see more apprentices like Jack find success with the team at Horizon Works!”