51Âþ»­

Securing a graduate role so early in his final year is a "fantastic feeling" for Jacob Ryder.

The Marketing Management student at 51Âþ»­ Leicester (51Âþ»­) will head to West Yorkshire on completion of his exams in May to take up employment with a prominent UK brand.

He said: "Now, not only am I able to concentrate on my studies for the remainder of the year without distraction, but I am also very excited and eager to begin my journey.

"Global Autocare is a leading independent fleet management specialist that looks after some of the UK's largest PLCs. 

"After meeting the team I am confident the thriving business and fast-paced workplace environment is perfect for me."

North Yorkshire-born Jacob credits the course structure, employability guidance from his personal tutor and experience gained on placement with giving him an edge to land his role as an account manager, which involves building and maintaining strong, long-lasting customer relationships.

The 22-year-old said: "I would like to place on record my thanks and gratitude to Associate Professor David Gordon, who has been a massively influential figure in my university experience.

"David was instrumental in my decision to do a placement year and has invested a lot of time into my personal development."

Jacob has had many highlights at 51Âþ»­. "However, the year I spent on placement at BMW head office is, without doubt, the best," he said.

Based in Farnborough, marketing assistant Jacob worked with agencies to produce national marketing campaigns, alongside running the national website and planning events.

"I had the opportunity to work at some fantastic events such as Goodwood Festival of Speed, which was amazing," he said.

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"It was an invaluable experience that has since opened many doors and opportunities for me.

"I built relationships and made many contacts within the industry. Global's commercial director spent 30 years at BMW and it was this shared connection that allowed us to begin discussions over a potential graduate opportunity."

Jacob's interest in marketing began at a young age.

"At just 14, I became fascinated by the concept of buying and selling, which led me to import a stock of 300 watches from overseas to sell locally and online in the UK," he said.

"It was this entrepreneurial spirit that inspired me to study Marketing Management."

Jacob was drawn to 51Âþ»­ by the reputation of Leicester Castle Business School, graduate employability figures and course accreditation by the .

The course (now renamed Marketing) has lived up to expectation.

He added: "It has enabled me to develop strong business acumen and practical skills, which are essential for graduates. I have enjoyed the scope for creativity and expression that is embedded within the course, alongside academia and marketing research."