PRINT
IT
RESELLER.UK
437
Interview with Jessica Wilbraham,
Brother UK MD for a day
What’s it like working at Brother UK?
It’s amazing, I joined in September last
year straight from college and I have learnt
so much.
Would you recommend an
apprenticeship to your peers and
why?
100 per cent! I had originally planned to
go to University and then I had a change
of heart. I didn’t think I was ready and
my mum suggested an apprenticeship
in an area that I am interested in might
be a better option for me, and she was
right! I’ve got the best of both worlds, I’m
continuing my education as well as getting
work experience.
My sister is 13 and she went to an
apprenticeship day at our local college this
week, I think it’s great that she’s got the
opportunity to find out more about all of
the options available, rather than thinking
that University is the only option.
How did you feel stepping into the
hot seat this morning?
I felt great – until I actually sat down at
Phil’s desk!
I wasn’t nervous as he had given
me a list of things in advance and I did
some preparation beforehand – but
then he showed me all the reports and
figures I had to review!
It made me realise how much
responsibility he has. I come in each
day and do my job – but Phil is
in charge of the entire business –
everything that happens within it and
for everyone who works here.
What was the best bit of the day?
Having the opportunity to see first-
hand how the company works from
the MD’s seat. I had no idea what’s
involved and today was a real eye
opener.
Having been MD for the day, have
your career aspirations changed?
Yes, especially when I heard about how
Phil started and where he is today. The
apprenticeship is a great platform and
maybe my career can take me right to
the top of a company too.
Phil is in
charge of
the entire
business –
everything
that
happens
within it and
for everyone
who works
here
Brother UK also hosted a mentoring
session, designed to help the students
identify their life aspirations and where
they may see themselves at 25 years
old. Gemmer Crozier a past apprentice
of Brother UK who has now successfully
gained permanent employment, also spoke
about her journey as an apprentice and the
choices she made via her apprenticeship,
and how she has now been given the
opportunity to go on to do a Chartered
Manager Degree Apprenticeship.
“By offering apprenticeships, we’re
investing in the future of young people
as well as in our business,” Jones said.
“We are able to draw on natural digital,
communication and social skills this
generation can offer and in turn they are
given the opportunity to earn and learn
on the job. Our existing workforce are
also encouraged to offer coaching and
mentoring support, which we have found
creates a stronger sense of wellbeing and
inclusion.”
He added: “Twenty years ago I walked
through these doors not knowing what my
future may bring. After a lot of hard work,
I made it to be Managing Director of the
company, who knows in twenty years’ time
one of our current apprentices could be
sitting in my seat for real!” .
