Mark Ackers

BA Business and Marketing Management in 2009

Mark Ackers graduated with a First and now works for SaleCycle as the Enterprise Sales Manager.

SaleCycle’s clients include Virgin Atlantic, Sony, and the Arcadia Group. He is responsible for growing the business clients, identifying the right companies and employees, reaching out to them, building relationships and winning their business. In his time in the company he has secured deals with AllSaints, B&Q, Pretty Little Thing and is close to winning business with many more.

He explains: “It's a really exciting business and fantastic to have a market leader working with these brands right here in the North East.”

After graduating Mark was taken on by The Test Factory to plan and implement a new marketing strategy across all levels of the organisation. He worked there for five years, two in marketing and three in sales.

“My first two years in sales were all about Business Development where I thrived - putting on meetings and supporting the business in winning contracts worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. Success in this role lead to the promotion of a consultant where I was then responsible for closing the deals myself which I did with companies Like Google, Aegon and Fitness First. It was a really rewarding role.”

But after five years he had a desire to challenge himself again and find somewhere new and that resulted him in moving to SaleCycle.

“It’s important you find the right company for you, an arena in which you can learn and grow. The first job is an important choice. Once you're employed it’s all about impressing. Be enthusiastic, be reliable, be willing to learn, get that experience.

“I never have the Monday blues, I never clock watch. I've always enjoyed going into work.

“But what makes a great company? People, culture and your boss. If there’re great colleagues, a good atmosphere and the boss is willing to back you then you have all you need. My other advice would be how important your attitude is, if you are engaged with a positive mind you will go far, being a negative influence is a red flag to any employer.”

Mark added: “When I left the University I was chuffed with my experience, the course was really good, I was lucky (well, maybe not, I worked so hard) to get a first-class honours and I made friends for life.

“I also left with a girlfriend who is now my wife-to-be. Whenever I look back at the University of Sunderland I only have fond memories, a lot to be proud of and I'm grateful for my time there.”