Name: Emily Raleigh
Job title: PR Consultant
Tell us about your career journey to the 3M BIC
Academically I am a linguist, having studied Spanish and Italian at University. I always say I ended up in PR by default when I got a temp job for a local agency as a PR admin assistant when I had just finished my studies. It was from there that my copywriting and creative capabilities were noticed by my colleagues, and I got more involved in client work. I worked my way up the ranks within the agency, working across a range of B2B and B2C clients.
Following a short career break in Spain, where I had hoped to find a job over there, I headed back to the UK and landed a job at a Leeds PR agency with a HQ in London, working on various national private and public sector accounts over the next three years. I then decided to go freelance when I had my first child to benefit from the flexible working hours. My first ever client happened to be the 3M BIC in 2012, and I have worked here ever since, recently becoming a part-time permanent member of the team.
Describe a typical day at work:
In a nutshell, I work alongside the marketing team at the 3M BIC to promote the Centre and its services. The great thing about the centre is that it is so diverse, it is not just serviced offices, so there is always lots to talk about. Its technology and proximity to the University of Huddersfield is a big pull for many businesses.
I am the wordsmith of the 3M BIC management team, so any copywriting, whether it’s a blog, press release, web copy, newsletter article or feature article, is usually written by me with input from the relevant team member. I also support the marketing team with social media and creating marketing collateral.
What keeps you motivated at work?
Having a passion to share the great things that we do at the 3M BIC, meeting inspirational people and hearing about their journeys, and securing great pieces of coverage, of course!
The most exciting thing about your job?
The diversity. One minute I could be writing an article about the benefits of X-ray Computerised Tomography, the next I am writing about how hybrid working is set to change how people work. I have also encountered some high profile and inspirational people along the way that I never thought I would ever meet while at the 3M BIC, from Sirs and royalty to Hollywood movie stars. Everyday brings something new!
The most challenging?
I have found the last 12 months the most challenging with most of the team having to work remotely due to the pandemic. A big part of my job is to keep my ear to the ground and learn about all the great things that the 3M BIC teams are doing so I can identify any opportunities to showcase what we do. Working remotely has meant having less face-to-face time with people. However, the whole team at the 3M BIC has really embraced the situation and we have worked hard to ensure things keep ticking along and that the 3M BIC is still at the forefront of people’s minds.
Time of the day you most creative or inspired?
Probably the mornings, although I have been known to work late into the night if work needs to be done.
Proudest career moment?
I used to be editor of my own parenting magazine which was a dream come true. That said, taking the plunge to become freelance was a big achievement and getting my first ‘solo’ gig at the 3M BIC.
Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Everyone makes mistakes, you just need to learn from them and move on. I think making mistakes is a big part of how you develop as an individual, not just professionally but as a person too. You also have to be a great believer in yourself. If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.
What innovations should we look out for in your industry?
Digital transformation is a big thing in marketing and PR. It has certainly been accelerated by the pandemic as people have started to engage in content in different ways. While traditional PR routes still exist, more emphasis is around digital practices and diversifying content, whether it is podcasts, videos, webcasts and live streaming. It is all about making content engaging to a diverse range of audiences, not just a one-size-fits-all approach.
Out of the office…?
Currently renovating a house which is taking up a lot my time. Aside from that, I take part in adult ballet and tap classes, do a lot of reading and love spending quality time with my family – when we’re not decorating!
