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
University Graduate Programme / Internship
6-12 months as an intern, then 1-2 years as a CoordinatorSkills to master
- Structured learning, applying academic theory to real-world tasks, understanding corporate environments, basic project support.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivering tasks on time and to a good standard during your internship.
- Proactively asking questions and demonstrating a strong desire to learn.
- Receiving positive feedback from your internship manager and team members.
- 2
Administrative / Support Role (internal transfer)
1-2 years in admin, then 1-2 years as a CoordinatorSkills to master
- Organisational skills, internal communication, understanding business operations, basic data handling.
You're ready to move on when
- Taking on marketing-related tasks in your current role (e.g., internal comms, event support).
- Showing initiative to learn about the marketing department's goals and activities.
- Completing relevant online marketing courses in your own time.
- 3
Self-Taught / Freelance Projects
1-3 years building a portfolio, then 1-2 years as a CoordinatorSkills to master
- Practical application of marketing tools, content creation, basic analytics, project management for small clients.
You're ready to move on when
- A well-documented portfolio showcasing successful (even small-scale) marketing initiatives.
- Ability to clearly articulate your learning journey and the results you achieved.
- Demonstrated understanding of marketing fundamentals during interviews.