Emma Blackshaw

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Sojern

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since graduating, I’ve embarked on a career in digital marketing, focusing on the programmatic, native, and paid search spaces. My journey began at start up agency Kinase, where I started as a Paid Search Account Executive, quickly moving up to a Paid Search Account Manager. I then expanded my expertise at Taboola and MiQ, where I honed my skills in managing publisher networks and programmatic media campaigns for high-profile clients like Lenovo, Deliveroo, and OVO Energy. Currently, I am a Senior Client Success Manager at Sojern, leading digital marketing strategies for the travel industry. In this role, I manage global campaigns across various channels, serving as the regional subject matter expert for our cookieless solution, which will help advertisers reach their target audiences in a cookieless environment

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I chose a career in digital marketing due to my passion for leveraging data and technology to solve problems and drive business growth, alongside using my language skills. The dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the digital landscape presents continuous learning opportunities and challenges that keep me engaged and motivated. What I enjoy most about my work is the ability to combine analytical skills with creative thinking to develop and implement strategies that significantly impact our clients’ success. Seeing the tangible results of my efforts in driving client growth and satisfaction is incredibly rewarding.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

During my time at Exeter, I was actively involved in both the Photography Society and the Touch Rugby club, roles that not only enriched my university experience but also aligned closely with my personal interests. As the treasurer of the Photography Society for two years, I had the opportunity to combine my love for photography with valuable experience in managing finances and organising events. This role allowed me to deepen my understanding of photography, collaborate with like-minded peers, and contribute to the society’s growth. My passion for photography continues to be a significant part of my life; I love to travel and capture my experiences through the lens, creating lasting memories of the places I’ve visited. In addition to photography, my engagement with the Touch Rugby club was equally fulfilling. Playing touch rugby offered a fantastic way to stay active, develop teamwork skills, and indulge in my love for rugby in a less contact-intensive form. The camaraderie and competitive spirit within the club were invigorating, and I’ve carried this passion beyond university. I now play tag rugby, a variant of the game, after work and on weekends. This ongoing engagement with rugby has even led me to participate in tournaments abroad, showcasing how my involvement in these societies and clubs at Exeter has had a lasting impact on my personal and recreational life.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I absolutely loved the more practical aspects of my course. I fondly remember taking the Cryptography course, where I relished the challenge and excitement of solving puzzles and felt a sense of accomplishment when I could decipher the codes correctly.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

I enjoyed the vibrant and supportive community the most, especially the incredible people I met during my time there. The university’s inclusive and dynamic environment facilitated connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds, allowing me to form deep, lasting friendships. These relationships have become one of the most cherished aspects of my university experience. Engaging with coursemates, flatmates, joining clubs and societies, and participating in campus events provided ample opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, many of whom have become my life-long friends. The sense of camaraderie and the shared experiences, both academic and extracurricular, have enriched my time at Exeter immeasurably, making it not just a place of learning but a community where I found a second family.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Choosing Exeter was a decision influenced by several key factors, aligning with both my personal preferences and academic goals. Firstly, the campus environment was a significant draw, offering a community feel and a smooth transition from my hometown in Spain, thanks to its relatively mild weather. This was important for me to maintain a semblance of the climate I was accustomed to. Additionally, Exeter’s reputation as a Russell Group University promised a high standard of education and research opportunities, aspects that I valued highly for my academic and professional development. Beyond academics, sports played a pivotal role in my choice. Exeter is renowned for its excellent sporting facilities and a vibrant sports culture, which was crucial for me as I wanted to actively participate in sports while managing my studies. The university’s balance between offering a rigorous academic environment and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle made it an ideal choice. This combination of a conducive study environment, the prestige of a Russell Group institution, and outstanding sports facilities aligned perfectly with my desires, making Exeter the clear choice for my higher education.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

The most useful skills for my career have been strong analytical and some basic coding abilities developed through my academic studies (and practical experience during my 12 week placement). The ability to work effectively in a team, communicate complex ideas clearly, and adapt to new technologies quickly has also been crucial. Experiences that have been particularly valuable include working on solving complex problems or working out how to prove a hypothesis with my course mates, which taught me how to approach problems from different angles and collaborate with professionals from various backgrounds.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

My advice to a current student would be to embrace opportunities for learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Engage in projects that challenge you and allow you to apply your knowledge in practical scenarios. Networking with professionals and seeking mentorship can also provide valuable insights and guidance. Stay curious, be open to feedback, and be willing to adapt to changes, as these traits are crucial in navigating a career in a rapidly evolving field.

What are your plans for the future?

My plans for the future involve continuing to grow in my current field, taking on more challenging projects, and contributing to innovations that can have a significant impact. I am also interested in mentoring the next generation of professionals and sharing my knowledge and experiences to help others succeed. Additionally, I plan to engage in lifelong learning to ensure that my skills remain relevant and that I can continue to contribute effectively in my field