Student Name: Ben
Pathways Programme: Pathways to Marketing (2025 Cohort)
Internship Role: Sales and Marketing Specialist
Internship Employer: QWERTY Beer Box
Summary of Organisation: QWERTY Beer Box is a business that started at the University of Exeter back in 2020. We curate beer gift hampers that delight and champion independent craft breweries in our hampers across Shopify, Amazon, Funky Pigeon, Not On The Highstreet, social and more. Weāve made and sold over 75,000 gift hampers, have partnered with 100+ independent breweries and been accepted into the UKās #1 Business Startup Incubator.
Please briefly outline the project/tasks/responsibilities you worked on during your Professional Pathways internship:
“As a Sales and Marketing Specialist I was responsible for the expansion of B2B and B2C sales within the business. On the B2B side, I researched and approached new retail partners – successfully securing listings with major UK retailers including Next, Fenwick, and Virgin Experience Days. This involved pitching products, negotiating contract terms, and building relationships with category buyers. On the consumer side, I managed targeted email campaigns to over 10,000 people and social media activity which led to direct consumer sales. I also supported the PR function by building influencer partnerships and securing online editorial coverage. This role gave me practical experience in sales negotiation, account management, digital marketing, and brand positioning.”
How has the Professional Pathways programme helped you in taking the next steps in your career?
“The training was very insightful to me, as there were a variety of speakers with careers that related to many different aspects of marketing. From this I now have a greater idea of which areas I might enjoy in my future employment. As for the internship, QWERTY Beer Box offered me a part-time role to continue working for them, which has been an incredible experience so far.”
How do you think this experience will impact on your employability as you enter the job market as a recent graduate?
“I think that the Pathways scheme has been incredibly beneficial for my employability, as I learnt many skills, gained real marketing experience and met many people who may be able to help me in future.”
What achievement(s) were you particularly proud of during your Pathways internship?
“I was particularly proud of the job offer I received after finishing the Pathways scheme, as I was one of three interns working in my role. Following on from this, I have since managed to win contracts with companies like Virgin, Fenwick and John Lewis, using the skills that I learnt during the training.”
Given the Professional Pathways internship is 35 hours in total, what advice would you give to other students to ensure they gain as much as possible from the experience?
“Work as hard as you can and be eager to learn. Engage in discussions, and ask lots of questions. By showing that you are keen to learn and understand, future opportunities to work with your company may arrive.”
What advice would you give to a student who has to complete an internship via remote or hybrid working?
“Always be on time and engaged with the activity, even if itās an online meeting. I found I was more productive working in-person, however working remotely has also given me lots of flexibility on how I complete my tasks.”
Why would you recommend the Professional Pathways programme to other students?
“I think it is a fantastic opportunity to gain real experience while still at university, while preparing you for things such as an industrial placement or a graduate role.“