I left school in 2020, just as COVID-19 hit, and, knowing university wasn’t for me, began looking at jobs.I was taken on in October of that year on Sage’s apprenticeship programme, and worked on the phones and webchat, taking operational queries across payroll and accounting services, which gave me a great introduction to the business. Earning while you learn, while banking fantastic experience, throws up openings to make great strides.

I was named apprentice of the year and customer service apprentice of the year at a recent Northern Skills awards ceremony and dubbed ‘one to watch’ by bosses at North East-founded Sage. Whenever I do something, I do it to the best of my ability, and during my apprenticeship, I was constantly thinking about what might be next.

I knew I didn’t want to leave Sage – I love the organisation and what it stands for – so I took on more responsibilities, to broaden my knowledge and experience, while looking at opportunities internally.

I acted as a team manager, did a lot of coaching, helped employees coming into the business and shadowed other departments to find out what suited me, it led to my current role, as a customer success consultant for Sage HR, which I began in October. I maintain customer relationships, making sure there are no issues for those using the platform while helping with additional modules to further support businesses processes.