Alumni

Jules Quinn

Career Path: Managing Director, Popaball
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Whilst in my final year at Northumbria, we had to come up with a business idea, taking it from concept through to a live business. I decided upon graduating that I would continue with my business idea and see how far I could take it. Seven years later I run a successful business, still in the North East and I employ 18 full time staff and up to 40 temporary staff during busy periods. Of our full time staff, four are Northumbria graduates and one from Newcastle.

What are you doing now?

I am Managing Director with three Directors reporting to me. I still spend a lot of my time on the creative aspects of the business such as new product development and design. In addition to that I am pushing the business forward and working with the Directors and their teams to make sure we are all moving in the same direction.

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

I wanted to stay in the North East as I love it here. The city has loads going on and the sea side and country side are within 20 minutes drive. I really liked the structure of the Fashion Marketing course as it had both design and business within the course. I couldn't find many other universities which offered this.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

It was great! There was a real mix of lectures and team projects, as well as having your own projects to time manage.

How connected was your course with industry?

We had a year out in industry which was great. I managed to do a few placements which gave me a real insight and actually gave me the inspiration for my business.

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

100% - it was through my placement that I came up with my business idea. It also helped me develop my skills quickly and I got a better feel for design as I was immersed in it daily.

What was the best thing about your course?

That it combined both design and business.

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

I got a great deal of support when I started my business, even after I had completed my degree. The graduate enterprise team helped me access legal and financial support as well as many other sectors. They also link you up with other start up businesses, which is great.

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

I use design every day, including software such as illustrator and Photoshop. I learnt these skills at Northumbria and have improved on them every day since.