This year Britvic’s Employee Communications Advisor, April Streeton, is shortlisted for the Food and Drink Federation’s Apprentice of the Year. Here, she reflects on her career at Britvic so far and the opportunities it has given her for professional development.
When I joined Britvic four and a half years ago, I had no PR or communications experience. I joined the Corporate Affairs team and knew early into my role that I wanted to develop my knowledge and understanding of communications. I moved up to work as the Corporate Communications Advisor which I loved and was given the opportunity to make the role my own. This included carrying out test and learn activities on social media, speaking with multiple stakeholders and assisting with pitches and projects.
Britvic pay into the apprenticeship levy fund meaning there are courses I, as a Britvic employee, could take up while still doing my day-to-day job. My manager knew how much I wanted to get a professional qualification and supported me throughout.
The options that appealed most to me were a PR & Communications Assistant Apprenticeship (Level 4) and a Diploma in Public Relations (Level 4). I’ve always been told to take any opportunity that comes my way, so with no hesitation I enrolled on both professional qualifications.
The courses involved workshops, written assessments, projects and presentations. Two years later, with hard work and determination, I passed both with a distinction.
I would strongly urge anyone who is interested in getting a qualification to find out about what opportunities are available.
Following this, I’m proud to say I have been nominated for this year’s FDF Apprentice of the Year award and am looking forward to the awards evening in September.