Lynsey Buxton BA (Hons) Business Management, 2012

What are you doing now; tell us about your role and your journey since graduation?

In my current role as Marketing and Communications Business Partner, I provide internal and external communications and marketing support on behalf of the Interfleet Group Communications team. I am responsible for the delivery of both the internal and external communications strategy, whilst developing content and materials to support communication channels for the global business.

I work with key contacts across various regions to deliver their communications needs, specific and targeted campaigns, ongoing staff engagement and major business initiatives and change programmes. 

I’ve been working for Interfleet for almost eight years now, having originally joined the company as a Modern Apprentice in June 2007. During this time, and a as result of my continuing professional development, I have received six promotions covering a range of business areas which has given me increased exposure to the business as a whole.

Interfleet has supported my progression throughout this time, sponsoring further education and qualifications as part of my continued learning and development.

What were the main reasons you took this range of courses?

Whilst working full time, I studied a number of courses including a Higher National Diploma (HND), BA (Hons) and a CIM Diploma at the University of Derby, all focused on the subject of Business, Management and Marketing. The main reason I continued my education was to further my career within Interfleet and obtain sufficient qualifications to be eligible for a more senior, managerial role. I graduated from the BA (Hons) Business Management degree course in 2012.

Why did you choose to study the course at the University of Derby?

I chose the University of Derby for the convenience factor more than anything. However after studying at Derby for a number of years I’m a huge advocate of the College of Business teaching staff and programmes – which is one of the reasons I continued to study there over a six year period.

What impact has studying this course at Derby had on your career?

The ability to apply the learning modules to the business environment has really benefitted both me and Interfleet resulting in a better understanding of theory in practice. The UK Senior Management team often set my coursework subject(s) in order to help to solve a business problem. This has given me a much more rounded and broader view of the business as a whole, the challenges the company faces and enhanced my ability to become a more valued resource and input to more senior discussions based on my learning and experience.

How did the lecturers inspire you?

Many of my lecturers were business professionals which was great when it came to in applying theory learnt in the lecture theatre in practice. They took the time to give one-to-one tuition which was really helpful during stressful and challenging times – especially during the writing of my dissertation. I found everyone at the University very helpful.

What are your future plans?

Within the next five years I’d like to see myself leading a team, working as Marketing Manager or in a similar role within the business.

I’m currently having a break from further education after studying for over six years to focus on my career within the client service excellence and marketing environment.

What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study this course at the University of Derby?

I’d definitely recommend the University of Derby to those interested in progressing their education – especially through the part-time learning route. I studied at the same time as working full time, developing my career whilst applying my learning to the business environment.

Who are you still in touch with from University of Derby?

I’m still in touch with a number of lecturers and students from my courses at the University, having a number of them as connections on LinkedIn. It’s nice to be able to see others career progression since graduation and LinkedIn is a good way of keeping up to date.

I’ve also made some lifelong friends whilst studying at university who I regularly keep in touch with.