By Hilary Hastings: Diploma of Business / Diploma of Marketing and Communication 2019 TAFE QLD

I would like to start off by thanking Managing Director, Dalene Wray for this valuable opportunity to work in the Marketing and Communications Department at OBE Organic.

As a student, the question of transferable skills is always at the forefront of my mind. TAFE is known for its practical education and hands-on work experience and I have been able to benefit from that in my studies. When undertaking the Diploma of Marketing and Communication, the non-compulsory Work Integrated Learning Program, facilitated by Margaret Aspin, is available to students who are wanting real world industry experience. Local Brisbane businesses are selected to mentor and receive marketing assistance from selected students. It’s my view that if you choose to complete this work experience program, you will gain invaluable experience and a holistic view of the industry for the success of your future career.

OBE Organic Marketing and Sustainability Advisor, Chris Cosgrove was crucial for my success in the work experience program. He balanced his workload to mentor and set a variety of marketing tasks with measurable goals. His valuable feedback and constructive advice greatly assisted in developing my marketing skill set. Some interns have stories of working at organisations with little to do when the office was busy and direction had not been given. At OBE Organic, I was excited to be met with a strongly supportive, hardworking and integrated team that allowed me to put my skills to use for a variety of projects.

My biggest takeaway from the 13-week program was the ease and fulfilment that can be felt when working for an ethically conscious and sustainable organisation. I felt extremely blessed to be chosen for this opportunity to work for a business with values that are in line with mine. OBE Organic supports its employees and producers with professional development, and also advocates for diversity with over 70% of its employees being female and being one of the first agribusinesses in Australia to have a Reconciliation Action Plan. Managing Director Dalene Wray has employee diversity at the forefront of the business’ future. Her strong leadership and organisational skills have been and will continue to be a huge inspiration for me.

Now that I am at the finish line for my Marketing Diploma, I am ready and eager to get into the workforce and apply what I’ve learnt from the course and my time at OBE Organic. I’ve equipped myself with valuable skills for the modern-day marketing environment to bring targeted success in my next job.

Editor’s note to organisations looking to hire a marketing graduate: Hilary was a delight to host at OBE Organic with her initiative, enthusiasm to learn and very fast turnaround times. We highly recommend her and would be happy to provide a reference!

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