Four new apprenticeship roles have been created at a full-service marketing agency as a result of businesses wanting to fast track their on-line presence and find new ways to market.

The South Normanton-based agency, Purpose Media, which was founded in 2008, has a history of success nurturing apprentices into management roles. Over the last 12 years apprentices have graduated to roles that include Technical Project Managers, Account Directors, Developers, Designers and Technical SEO consultants.

To help find suitable apprentices, the company has appointed Derby-based apprenticeship provider EMA Training and has been in touch with other local education providers who may be able to put forward suitable candidates. Depending on their preferred specialism, it is expected that each apprentice will follow a one to two-year path of rotation between each service that Purpose Media offers, including creative design, digital marketing, website development, video production and PR.

Commenting on the expansion of the team, head of digital and strategy, Ellie Buckle said: “It’s such an exciting time to be in digital marketing. COVID-19 has affected many businesses but one thing we have proven is that digital marketing works. There is a huge demand from companies who are now clamouring to fast track their on line presence, particularly those who have been forced to close their traditional bricks and mortar presence as a result of Government restrictions and the need to adapt to offer click and collect or delivery options.”

Managing director Matt Wheatcroft added: “I’m really excited we are able to offer career opportunities to at least four young people and offer them a secure future.

“Many have had a really difficult time trying to study at home in order to get the grades needed to take their next step in career. Our experience proves that apprenticeship schemes are one of the best sources of talent you can get and many of our team that have been nurtured through the apprentice route now hold middle management roles. It has proved a success both for us as a business and for each individual.”

Pictured is Matt Wheatcroft with Josh Donnell, Lewis Angell and Ollie Henderson, who started as trainees and are now in management roles.