Paul Wickham, brand manager, Country Cottages in Ireland
Education: seven O’ levels, three A’ levels.
Training: various day courses in marketing and computing.
First travel job: joined Maurcott Marketing, producer of Florida Living Magazine. Initially employed in a marketing role and became involved with the layout, copy-writing and production of the magazine, helping to transform it from a directory to more of a magazine in its own right.
Career path: joined Midland Bank after college, but soon realised it was not what he wanted to do. Joined Florida Living in 1993, then joined English Country Cottages in 1995 in the marketing department where he was involved in both marketing and brochure production. Promoted to marketing executive in 1997. Moved to Country Cottages in Ireland as brand manager in June.
Advice for people wishing to develop a career in travel: “A working knowledge of the industry is a good substitute for education and training, so work experience is very useful. Ensure you are always aware of what is going on around you and bide your time. Hard work and patience will be awarded – eventually!”
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