Craig Smith
BA (Hons) Business and Applied Management 2016
Craig works as a Product Development Coordinator at retail company ScS.
“I’m the link between the company buyers and ScS shop floors, managing new product ranges into the business and communicating their introduction effectively throughout the network,” he explained.
Craig, who had been working at ScS since 2012, juggled his studies with a full-time job. After graduating from the University of Sunderland, he was promoted within the company to his current role. The 25-year-old says this has been one of his greatest achievements to date.
“The promotion has allowed me to gain important product and industry knowledge that will benefit my future goals and career aspirations.”
He added: “My biggest challenge at ScS is the day to day management of my team, which was a responsibility gained as part of my promotion. Although it is a challenge, it’s one I enjoy, and one that is made a great deal easier through mutual respect and support.”
Asked about what attracted him to the University of Sunderland, Craig commented: “Because I was working full-time, the University provided a part-time course which suited my schedule whilst still allowing me to gain a BA Honours degree.
“The facilities available were exceptional, and the guidance and support I received form my lecturers was second to none.”
He added: “My lecturer Peter Coleman was very supportive throughout my course and offered guidance whenever it was needed.”
Craig’s advice to recent graduates entering the job market is to fully commit to looking for the right role as soon as they can.
He said: “The faster you get on the ladder, the quicker you can start working your way up, and find the career path that is right for you.”
Craig’s plans for the future include working in a merchandising role with the aspiration of becoming a Senior Buyer for a successful retail company.