Ad Operations Executive Review

My role involves managing the setup, performance, and optimisation of digital ad campaigns on publisher websites, newsletters, and other platforms. I also deal with reporting for these campaigns, and communication with clients.

Along with furthering my knowledge of general computer software like the Microsoft and Google suites, I have also learnt specific skills for Ad Operations, including how to use different ad servers and digital marketing software, and how to analyse data.

I enjoyed the job aspect of the apprenticeship, where I was actually doing client work, but I struggled with the coursework/portfolio and lesson aspects. This is not the fault of my employer, though, as when I was having issues they dedicated time to helping me understand what I needed to for the coursework.

My employer made sure to give me plenty of time to complete my apprenticeship coursework during my working week. However, again through no fault of my employer, I found that the structure of completing the apprenticeship portfolio made it harder for me to get through the coursework. There were four reports that I needed to complete over the length of the apprenticeship, and they had to be done consecutively, but I would have preferred being able to work on at least two at once, as when I struggled on one of them, I could have switched to working on an another. I also felt like what was being asked of me in the reports could have been clearer.

Without the great support from my employer, I feel that I wouldn't have been able to complete the apprenticeship. As previously mentioned, I really struggled with the coursework aspect, and the attention and help given to me by Adopstar's management team was vital in my success.

I felt like there was an expectation from the training provider that the apprentices should have no issues with the coursework, but I found it very hard to decipher what was being asked of me in the reports, and I felt like had to go out of my way to get help. However, my pathway planner was great and tried very hard with me, putting in lots of effort to help me get through the coursework.

The apprenticeship gave me a good knowledge of digital marketing in general, which helped me to understand client goals. However, as Ad Operations is a niche area of digital marketing, this was not covered in the course syllabus.

Adopstar cares for both its employees and the wider local community, and shows this in many ways. To name a few, we have networking, charity, and awards events, a casual football team, and access to boardgames at lunchtimes. The team gets on well and sometimes we will even all go and get a drink at the pub together.

Yes

The team at Adopstar is supportive and friendly, and the work is nicely varied over many different clients. It is a very fun place to work with a close and inclusive team.

Be yourself, Adopstar is a very supportive workplace and you are sure to get on with your co-workers. Be willing to ask questions and learn as much as you can, there are many great opportunities to learn from others and expand your knowledge base.