How our BDE Samson changed industries and took on new challenges at TQUK
Samson Clarke Business Executive
Are you seeking your next opportunity in a Business Development role? Are you looking for a career change post lockdown? Are you self-motivated with a growth mindset, wanting to succeed in life? Training Qualifications UK (TQUK) is now recruiting for a Business Development Officer to join the team. Here’s Samson’s story, a recently appointed Business Development Executive.
Samson graduated from Liverpool John Moores University with a Masters Degree in International Business and Management. Having worked in the fashion retail sector during his time studying, he went on to develop a remarkable track record in retail management.
Samson’s final role in retail before the lockdown was as a Flannels Store Manager, overseeing three floors of high luxury women and men’s retail fashion at a flagship store in the northwest of England. During the nationwide lockdown, Samson took the opportunity to review his career and think about where he saw his future over the next five years.
As with many people, Samson’s view of retail due to lockdown is that consumer behaviour has shifted to purchasing online. Samson believes that retail will always have a presence on the high street, but more people are moving to online browsing and purchasing.
This, coupled with the fact that some retail brands, such as Debenhams, have shifted to an online presence only, adds to tougher times on the high streets. A mentor of Samson once told him that he should never be scared or put off from starting again in a new industry or sector. It is the key transferable skills and experience that are built up over the years that allow people to transition into a new role.
Samson did have an opportunity to move to another city after lockdown and take up a new position as a store manager with an up and coming new fashion brand in the UK; however, he wanted more than this opportunity had to offer.
He wanted a career where he could put all of his people, communication and interpersonal relationship skills into a role that would develop himself further. He wanted to step out of his comfort zone and move to a sector that would help him grow and develop as a person, giving him career satisfaction at the same time.
Samson joined TQUK in March 2021 and has not looked back. It was the right decision, and he is now up and running in the Business Development team. We caught up with Samson to see how he is getting on.
How did you come across TQUK?
I was helping my partner find learning courses in the healthcare sector and came across the TQUK website. Having read about some of the TQUK courses and qualifications, I checked out the job vacancy page and noticed a Business Development Executive position. I knew I possessed the skills for the role and decided to apply for the post.
What were your initial impressions of TQUK?
From the first interview, the people came across as friendly, welcoming and professional. They believe in their people and want everyone to be the best version of themselves.
From day one, when the Managing Director welcomed me into the company, it was an enjoyable journey. There is a lot to learn about the awarding organisation and education sector, but plenty of people in the business are willing to help you.
I have been encouraged to jump in at the deep end and what’s great is that I know there is always support around me when I need to ask a question.I realised just how much of my skill set, which I developed both at university and in the retail sector, was transferable and which I am using in my day to day activities.
Was it the right decision to change careers?
Absolutely. I am enjoying the work, the clients and people I am working with and the role itself. We are in exciting times, and I am in a company that I would describe as innovative and progressive. I know I can add value and make a difference. This is both welcomed and encouraged.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Getting to understand the education sector and the intricacies of qualifications, accredited courses, course creation from design to finished product. Also, the different funding stream opportunities open to educational establishments and awarding organisation companies.
The other challenge, I would say, is going from knowing everything about my profession to becoming a learner again and asking lots of questions and doing my research and learning. That said, this is what makes it exciting and challenging.
What do you enjoy about your new role?
I enjoy talking with clients and helping them develop their products and services for their educational establishment. I find this extremely rewarding, knowing that students will benefit from their education due to the work that I am doing at TQUK.
What advice would you give someone considering a career change?
Look at your skills and experience, consider those that are transferable and the pros and cons of staying in your current role. If you don’t want life to pass you by, and you want a new challenge and rewarding career, then do it. You won’t regret it.
Training Qualifications UK
Established in 2013, Training Qualifications UK is the most creative and contemporary Awarding Organisation in the UK. We create opportunities for people. Everything we do is done with that in mind: designing qualifications that stand out from the crowd and give people the skills and knowledge they need to do the same. Those who take our qualifications see real change in their lives, careers and personal outlooks.
We champion innovation, creativity, flexibility and dynamism in the approaches that those who deliver training and assessment to learners use. We always listen and believe in saying ‘yes’ as often as we can.
How to apply
If you’re interested and want to find out more, head over to our Vacancies page. If you think this role is for you and that you could make a difference, then email your CV and covering letter to our Recruitment Coordinator Holly at recruitment@tquk.org