Early Careers Colleague Spotlight: Emilia Dutton – Marketing & Communications Graduate
A career in utilities is anything but ordinary with many unique roles across a range of departments. We are passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent through our Early Careers programmes that allow young workers to gain real-world experience, learn from expert mentors and study for nationally-recognised qualifications. In this Early Careers edition of our ‘Colleague Spotlight’ series, we sat down with Marketing and Communications Graduate, Emilia Dutton, to talk us through her experience embarking on one of our graduate programmes.
A glimpse into Avove Graduate programmes.
Marketing and Communications Graduate, Emilia Dutton, takes us through her experience as an Avove Graduate working within our Marketing and Communications team.
Tell us about your time at University.
I studied psychology at the University of Gloucestershire. I found psychology really interesting at A-level and, as I didn’t know what career I wanted to pursue, I followed what I enjoyed.
What encouraged you to pursue a career in utilities?
Avove! I wasn’t specifically looking for a job in utilities, but Avove had a vacancy in the career I wanted to pursue, at the right level for me. What really drew me in was how the company presented itself; its values, the way colleagues were showcased on the website and social media, and the emphasis on volunteering and making a positive social impact. It felt like a place where I could grow and be part of something meaningful.
Why did you choose an Avove Graduate programme?
I wanted to work in Marketing and Communications, but had minimal experience, so I had to look for somewhere that would allow me to learn and develop. The graduate programme allowed me to do that. I knew I wanted a team environment where I could learn from colleagues, which this role provided, and Avove appealed to me further with its commitment to making a positive social impact and volunteering.
Outline your current role and responsiblities
I support both internal and external communications in a variety of ways. Internally, I communicate with colleagues, write articles and design visuals for our weekly colleague newsletter. I also update and create intranet pages to keep everyone informed about company news, DEIB events and general updates. I’m currently involved in the research and rollout of Viva Engage, helping to enhance colleague engagement. To strengthen my understanding of external communications, I recently completed a digital marketing course.
I mainly support external comms by creating social media content for DEIB initiatives and have started learning to contribute to website content and social media analytics reporting. One of my key projects has been researching Instagram to help develop a proposal for launching a new account to engage with and showcase the work we do, as well as careers at Avove to a younger audience.
What’s your favourite thing about working at Avove?
My favourite thing about working at Avove is definitely the people. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly friendly, approachable and always willing to help. It’s created such a positive and supportive atmosphere, which makes working here enjoyable.
What’s your advice for students considering pursuing a graduate programme in the utilities industry?
Go for it! Even if you feel like you don’t have much experience in the role or the industry, don’t let that hold you back. What really matters is your willingness to learn, embrace new challenges and make the most of every opportunity. If you’re open to asking questions, taking initiative and getting involved wherever you can, you’ll gradually find yourelf building confidence and competence.
Why would you recommend an Avove Graduate programme?
I would highly recommend an Avove Graduate Programme to anyone looking to develop their skills in a supportive, exciting and fast-paced environment. From day one, you’re given real responsibilities, surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you grow. It’s a great opportunity to learn on the job, gain hands-on experience, and be part of a team that values your contribution and invests in your development.
Advance Your Career at Avove
Looking for a role where you can make a real difference? We’re passionate about nurturing the careers of the next generation, so we have developed a range of Early Careers opportunities that offer the best first steps into a rewarding career in utilities.
We’re committed to nurturing a working environment that allows our team to unlock their full potential through providing training and continuous development. So, if you’re looking to advance your career within a company that cares about your professional and personal development within an industry where you can make a real difference, explore our current opportunities today.