Simon Davies - CIM Professional Diploma
Simon studied the CIM Professional Diploma at Derby and graduated in 2009. He is now Director of Cocorostyle, a Derby based company producing and selling Japanese baby clothes.
Studying around the world
After completing a degree in Communication Studies I flew over to the other side of the world and lived in Japan working for the British Council.
During my time in Japan I promoted the UK as a study destination and also taught academic skills to students wishing to study in the UK. I completed my PG Dip in TESOL while in Japan.
I returned to the UK in 2006 and started working for an international organisation as a Marketing Officer, specialising in internet marketing. As I wanted to boost my advancement prospects I decided to take the CIM Professional Diploma to broaden my knowledge and get the skills I needed to go for a management role.
Studying the CIM Professional Diploma at Derby
The CIM Professional Diploma was perfect for my needs. I had been in a marketing role for some years but had no formal qualification in the field. After reviewing my options I decided upon the Professional Diploma at Derby because of its strong industry focus and the fact that the teaching staff had current marketing management experience.
The modules were also really varied and covered the core areas that are essential before making the move into a management role.
I also liked the fact that I could complete coursework rather than only taking exams, and the teaching staff were supportive and made themselves available if and when I needed support and advice.
Cocorostyle
Since I graduated from the course I have started my own business venture with my partner using the knowledge and skills I learnt on the course. I had the confidence to know how to get started, which is often the biggest challenge, and have since launched a company called Cocorostyle which specialises in selling baby kimono and cast iron chiminea.
I think it's the fact that if you are looking to move up in a company then the course gives you the skills you need. But in addition to that it also gives you the insight and confidence you need if you ever decide to strike out on your own.
How the course has helped
The application of knowledge is a big boost and it really helped me go from being in a supporting marketing role to being a manager within nine months and then starting my own company.
The challenge is maintaining the self discipline to stick to the course, give up your weekends for a while and really apply yourself - but it's well worth it.
