Alumni

Briony Dawson

Career Path: Project Coordinator (Creating a Workplace for the Future) - Pentland Brands
Location: Bracknell, UK

I have worked for Waitrose for seven years and did this both before and during university. Upon graduating I was promoted to a Manager and since then have pursued my goal of getting into a role within the recruitment department at head office. Recently, I have been offered a new role which better relates to my career path as a Project Coordinator on an organisational change and development project around the physical and cultural workplace for Pentland Brands (owner of many top sportswear brands such as Speedo and Berghaus).

What are you doing now?

I am currently working in my new role with Pentland Brands.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I loved Newcastle as a city and knew Northumbria had a great reputation and a really friendly feel to it. It is a professional yet fun university where, if you want to, you have the support and academic excellence to succeed.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

Mainly lectures and seminars, with lots of group work in the initial stages of your degree. This allowed you to mix with the rest of your cohort and get to know one another. Northumbria has a very friendly and supportive feel, it is a place that you can truly be yourself and thrive as a result.

How connected was your course with industry?

It was well connected with the British Psychological Society and there were many opportunities to attend talks and sessions.

What was the best thing about your course?

The lecturers - inspiring, supportive, they genuinely want you to do well and fulfill your potential.

Which skills/ knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

To work to a high standard, to be self-motivated and disciplined. To know that if you want something in life you need to make it happen yourself but there will always be people to support you along the way.