As I reflect on my first full year at NAKEDPR, I’m amazed at how quickly time has flown by and how much I’ve been able to grow both professionally and personally. From my initial summer placement in 2022 to joining full-time in September, it’s been a whirlwind of experiences, challenges, and unforgettable moments.
My Path To NAKEDPR
My journey with NAKEDPR began during my studies at Heriot-Watt University, in Edinburgh, where I studied International Business Management with Marketing. During my course I developed an interest in marketing, and this set me on the path to a career in PR and Marketing. After a successful summer placement in 2022, I was delighted to return to NAKEDPR as a full-time employee after completing my final year of university.
Having already experienced NAKEDPR’s culture, I had a good sense of what to expect when I joined the company full-time. The team’s approachability and willingness to answer questions has not changed, creating an environment that encourages learning and improvement. This collaborative atmosphere has been a key factor in making my first year both productive and enjoyable.
Variety of Clients and Projects
We work with a wide range of clients across Northern Ireland, from pioneering space, aerospace and advanced engineering companies to forward-thinking construction and professional service providers. Innovation thrives within these industries, and with our clients leading transformative change, they are hitting the headlines regularly across the region.
Building close relationships with our clients has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. Each organisation brings its own unique set of opportunities and challenges, and I enjoy watching and learning how our team adapts to their individual needs. It’s been particularly satisfying to see several of our clients receive industry awards for their achievements, which is a key highlight for me.
A standout project from my first year was working on the launch of the NI SPACE cluster ahead of the 2023 UK Space Conference in Belfast. Being part of the team that developed a comprehensive marketing strategy and launch campaign was an incredible experience, allowing me to dive into the fascinating world of space technology and innovation and to see firsthand the potential Northern Ireland holds as a hub for space-related research and development. This project broadened my understanding of the intricacies of marketing and comms in a specialised sector and I learnt a lot about the companies that are positioning Northern Ireland as a leader in the global space industry.
Beyond the Office
One of the most memorable experiences of my first year was our team-building day, which offered a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues outside of our usual work environment. The day was thoughtfully organised and started with a lovely breakfast at Harlem Café, Belfast which set a relaxed and positive tone for the day. We then headed to Prison Island, a challenging escape room experience that tested our problem-solving and teamwork skills. Afterwards, we enjoyed a cultural exploration of Belfast through a guided taste and tour, discovering hidden gems around the city and sampling local foods. It was a fantastic day that brought us closer together as a team and gave us a fresh perspective outside the usual office setting.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on my first year at NAKEDPR, I am proud of how much I have grown professionally. As I look forward to my second year at NAKEDPR, I’m excited about the prospect of taking on more responsibilities, strengthening client relations, and tackling new projects. The supportive environment at NAKEDPR is helping me to develop my skillset to ensure that I’ll continue to evolve in my career with confidence.
