From Apprentice to Marketing Executive: Molly’s Journey at Apex Radio Systems

When Molly joined Apex Radio Systems in March 2024, she described herself as a “nervous, shy 18-year-old walking into the corporate world.”

Just over two years later, she has completed her Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketing Apprenticeship with a Distinction, been recognised as a finalist for North East Advanced Apprentice of the Year and progressed into her new role as Marketing Executive.

It’s been quite the journey.

Choosing a different route into marketing

After leaving sixth form, Molly knew university wasn’t the path she wanted to take.

“I wanted to learn, earn and gain experience,” Molly explains. “After dabbling in some social media marketing in my previous job. I knew marketing was the path I wanted to take.”

An apprenticeship offered the opportunity to combine learning the fundamentals of marketing with real, hands-on experience.

“I would recommend an apprenticeship to anybody. It’s an amazing way to gain hands-on experience alongside learning all the fundamentals.”

“If I had attended universty, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My skills and confidence would be on a completely different path. I’m so grateful to Apex for taking the chance on an apprentice and providing me with the first stage of my career.”

Learning by doing

No two days in marketing at Apex are quite the same – something Molly quickly discovered.

Throughout her apprenticeship, she developed skills across email marketing, social media, event coordination, WordPress management, content creation, Canva design and Google advertising.

But for Molly, the most valuable development wasn’t simply technical.

“The most valuable thing I’ve learned is confidence in my own abilities. At the start of my apprenticeship, I relied heavily on others for guidance, but over time I’ve developed the skills and confidence to work more independently while knowing when to seek advice.”

That confidence was put to the test when Molly took on additional responsibility within the Apex marketing function during her manager’s maternity leave

Having only worked within the business and marketing for nine months, Molly was trusted to help keep key marketing activity moving while continuing to complete her apprenticeship.

“The biggest challenge I faced was being able to juggle my apprenticeship work alongside keeping marketing functions afloat. It was something I originally struggled with. However, with support from the wider Apex team, as well as my organisational skills, I overcame the challenge and managed to pass my apprenticeship with a Distinction.”

Recognised amongst the North East’s best apprentices

Molly‘s hard work was also recognised outside of Apex when she was shortlisted as a finalist for North East Advanced Apprentice of the Year at the 2026 North East Apprenticeship Awards.

“Receiving this nomination is something I’m very proud of. To know hard work pays off and to be considered among the best apprentices in the North East is a huge achievement.”

Nominated with the support of the training provider, We Are Zenith. The recognition gave Molly an opportunity to reflect on just how far she had come.

“When I first started at Apex, I was focused on learning the basics and building confidence. Now, it has shown the progress I’ve made in developing my technical and professional skills, learning the ins and outs of marketing and being able to manage campaigns from start to finish.”

Molly credits her willingness to learn, commitment to producing high-quality work and enthusiasm for taking on new challenges as key factors in her progression.

She also recognises the importance of being given the opportunity to step up.

“Support from Apex was really important. If they hadn’t given me a chance and provided me with an opportunity to excel. I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I wouldn’t have received this nomination.”

From Apprentice to Marketing Executive

Following the successful completion of her apprenticeship, Molly has now progressed into the role of Marketing Executive at Apex.

For someone who joined the business looking for an employer that would support both personal and professional development, the promotion is particularly meaningful.

“When initially starting my marketing career, I knew I wanted to choose a business that supported both personal and career growth.”

“Two years later, to see what I had initially looked for come true means a lot to me. I’m proud of myself for achieving this.”

In her new role, Molly is looking forward to continuing to take ownership of marketing campaigns and developing her skills further.

“I know now that I can successfully manage campaigns from start to finish, so I’m excited to showcase my skills across a wide range of opportunities,”

Supporting the next generation

At Apex, we believe apprenticeships work best when people are given the opportunity to learn, but also the trust to put that learning into practice.

Molly’s journey is a brilliant example of what can happen when talent, determination and opportunity come together.

“Being trusted with real responsibilities and still having support to learn and develop is one thing that makes Apex a great place for apprentices.”

“You’re encouraged to take ownership of projects and your own work, while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.”

Her advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship?

“Go for it.”

“Take every opportunity that comes your way. It may seem daunting and scary, but it will help you in the long term. It’ll build your confidence and enhance your career development.”

When asked to sum up her journey at Apex in one word, Molly chose:

Evolution.

We couldn’t have put it better ourselves.

Congratulations, Molly. We’re incredibly proud of everything you’ve achieved so far – and we’re excited to see what comes next.