After completing a History Degree at Northumbria University, Matthew went straight into a career in market research and customer service. After his wife informed him of some vacancies available at the College, Matthew applied for a role and was successful in securing employment. He started out as a Telemarketer for Middlesbrough College, then moved into the work placements and T Levels team and has recently begun his role as a Skills Development Manager within the Business Development team for Northern Skills, the apprenticeship and training arm of Middlesbrough College.
Matthew said: “I like to speak to different people and network, so applying for the Skills Development Manager role at Northern Skills felt like a no brainer to me. I was ready to take on a new challenge and get stuck into something different, and after 2 months in the new role I am loving it.
“The staff I have worked with in the past, and my new team, have all been so nice and supportive. So are the employers and partners we work with at the College, it’s great to know we are helping develop their business whilst helping learners kickstart their careers. Every day is different, that’s what I like most about my job!
“I have been involved in lots of great projects at the College so far, one of my favourites being the charity football match we did with the MFC Foundation. It was a great team bonding exercise whilst raising money for a brilliant cause, even if we didn’t win. I also organised a 2-day takeover of a local Jurys Inn, where work placement students could try out different roles within the hotel. I loved this as it gave the students such great work experience, and it helped us build up a great relationship with Jurys Inn.
“I would absolutely recommend working at Middlesbrough College Group. It’s a great place to work with really friendly staff and a great atmosphere. Plus, there is great room for career progression. During my time I have moved through 3 roles to get to where I am today, and that has been possible because of the environment here at the College.
“In my spare time I love to play different sports, especially football and tennis. I have recently been trying my hand at golf but have a feeling that should wait until I retire!”
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