Michael Peeke-Vout

I am an experienced Project and Programme Manager with a focus on digital transformation within the North-East business sector. I Co-Founded a successful software development company during my time at Northumbria, establishing Wubbleyou as a leading market choice for flagship clients such as the Department for Education, NHS supply chains and local authorities.

What are you doing now?

I am currently working in the Graduate Futures team at Northumbria University supporting students and graduates with both enterprise and work placements.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I was born in Northumberland and was happy to continue to study here. The facilities at the newly refurbished Pandon Building meant I would be using the latest technology available.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

It was a mix of lectures, seminars and team projects. Lectures were well attended, and seminars were a positive way to encourage peer communication. It was overall a positive experience. 

How connected was your course with industry?

There were good connections with CIS, as there are now. Myself and a business partner were the first from that department to setup a company during our placement year, so it was a good experience.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

It helped build my confidence so I'm a big advocate of doing a placement of some variety. Mine was very different with me becoming a Director overnight but I learnt the value of working with clients.

What was the best thing about your course?

I've made some long-term friends that have supported me throughout my career. There was always a feeling of support around me, and we had some lecturers that were willing to go the extra mile to see you succeed.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

I believe it gave me a good grounding, of the likes of time management and other core skills. It also allowed me to focus on project work, in a structured fashion so it's actually created the foundations i use today.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

The ability to programme in a range of languages, to plan projects and work as a team with a collective brief.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

Working alongside peers on a daily basis, working through challenges and seeing the results.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

It's a great environment for learning. Embrace it, and actually make sure you spend time on campus as the benefits will be shown in later life.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Positive educational development.

For more information about me visit:

• LinkedIn profile