Erica Legg

We spoke to current apprentice Erica Legg to find out how her Degree Apprenticeship in Leadership and Management is helping her to develop her career.

What’s your name, where are you from, and where do you work?

I’m Erica Legg, I grew up in East Cleveland in the Tees Valley, and I’m the Sales and Marketing Manager at Aircon Group.

What does your day-to-day role involve?

As Sales and Marketing Manager my day-to-day job can be very varied – which keeps it interesting! From creating social media posts, to drafting blog content and case studies, to designing leaflets and marketing materials.

I also manage a small sales team. We keep in regular contact with existing clients to ensure they are happy with the service provided. Our role also involves telesales to businesses who know us but don’t use us, as well as developing relationships with new clients through calls, emails, social media and networking.

I also support colleagues in other departments with skills development by identifying NVQ training, enrolling staff with colleges and claiming relevant funding. I’ll also monitor learners throughout their course to make sure they’re on track. Having enrolled on an apprenticeship myself to help my career development, I know just how important and rewarding training can be for learners of all ages.

Tell us about your apprenticeship

I started my degree apprenticeship at Teesside University in January 2020 and I’m still working towards it. I’ve just got my dissertation left to complete! I’m doing a master’s degree in Leadership and Management.

The world went into lockdown just as I was starting, so we only had about four days in university before all lectures moved online. These usually took place once a month for one day, followed by lots of reading, research and writing assignments. Tutors are available for a catch up if you needed any additional support. I also accessed some classes and support from the library as it was a long time since I had studied at this level.

Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?

I have worked in leadership positions since leaving university over 20 years ago and I thought the master’s degree would be a good way to consolidate my skills and experience into a qualification, but it has been much more than that!

There was also funding available to study, so as a single mum it presented me with an opportunity I would never have been able to afford.

How did this lead you to your current role, or shape your journey?

When I started my master’s, I was working for a small company and while I had the opportunity to work with some fantastic large organisations I often felt I needed more of a varied role. Doing the course and passing the assignments gave me the confidence to apply for my current position, bringing greater responsibility with it.

What would you say to someone thinking about starting an apprenticeship?

Just do it!

At Aircon Group we are now starting apprentices in our business to align with our social value policy. We are upskilling mature staff who have been with us a while, but also giving younger employees the opportunity to do an apprenticeship and gain a qualification rather than just learn on the job.

Is there one myth you’d like to bust about apprenticeships?

Apprentices aren’t just for young people, I’m 43 and I’ve learnt so much!

Feeling inspired by Erica’s story? Click here to find out more about apprenticeships.