The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Marketing Assistant / Coordinator
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Strong foundational writing skills, understanding of marketing campaigns, basic content creation (Canva/PowerPoint), and a knack for organisation.
You're ready to move on when
- You're regularly drafting internal updates for your team or department.
- You've taken the lead on organising small internal events or communications initiatives.
- You're actively seeking opportunities to improve internal messaging and engagement.
- Your manager trusts you to handle routine communications independently.
- 2
Public Relations (PR) Coordinator / Junior Account Executive
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Excellent media relations and storytelling, crisis communications awareness, understanding of brand messaging, and stakeholder management.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully managed media outreach for smaller campaigns.
- You're skilled at crafting press releases and media kits that resonate with specific audiences.
- You can articulate brand messages clearly and consistently.
- You've shown an ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- 3
Executive Assistant with Comms Focus
3-4 yearsSkills to master
- Exceptional organisational and administrative skills, experience drafting communications for senior leaders, discretion, and a deep understanding of organisational dynamics.
You're ready to move on when
- You're regularly ghostwriting emails or presentations for senior executives.
- You're trusted with sensitive and confidential information.
- You've taken initiative to improve internal communication flows or processes.
- You have a strong understanding of the company's culture and key stakeholders.