Janina Diefenbach

Please tell us about your career path since leaving Northumbria

I worked for a tour operator and IT company in the tourism sector. Two years later I started as Key Account Manager at Become Europe, one year later I became Head of Key Account Management & Sales, an additional year later I became Director of Shop Business & Content at Become Europe. I am now leading the Key Account Team at billiger.de, the most famous price comparisson site in Germany.

Please tell us about your current job and what it involves

I am responsable for all customers, our key accounts are online shops like Zalando, Otto, Amazon and Ebay.      

What made you choose Northumbria University?

The partnership with former ABW in Mannheim.

Why did you choose to study in the UK?

The international aspect - I wanted to study in english.

What was your favourite thing about your course and/or Northumbria University?

Marketing and international studies.

What societies/activities did you take part in outside of your studies?

I studied in Germany while being a student of Northumbria, so I worked most of the time for tour operators, event agencies and radio.

In one sentence, sum up your time here at Northumbria

Time with studies was great, I learned a lot, got various impressions and good contacts for my future career.

What professional achievement are you most proud of since leaving university?

That my bosses always saw my personal achievements and gave me more responsability in a short time period.

What career objectives do you still have?

I want to gain more experience in middle management and try to achieve the next step into upper management.

How have your experiences at Northumbria University helped your life and career so far?

Relationships do always helps, english studies were great and helpful.

What advice would you give students who wish to pursue a similar career to yours?

Always believe in yourself, there is nothing you can't do. Be open minded to learn new things and let nobody stop you.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Northumbria University?

It was a great experience for me, especially the courses from the German partner university.