A Public Relations and Media student from Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh, has kick-started his PR career with one of Edinburgh’s top agencies.

Gerard Klein, 23, has secured a Trainee Account Executive position with Grayling, a national agency that specialises in data-driven creative strategies in public relations, public affairs, digital and social media and event management.

Having moved to Edinburgh from Belfast to study at QMU, Gerard had already completed an internship with Grayling as part of his Public Relations and Media degree at QMU.

Gerard has hit the ground running by applying the knowledge and skills he acquired at QMU to a number of different client projects and industry sectors, including Marks and Spencer.

Commenting on his time at QMU and new PR role, Gerard said: “Without the opportunities given to me by QMU and my programme leader and lecturers, I would not have this job.

“I was given fantastic opportunities to meet people in the PR industry as part of my QMU degree. I’m now getting the chance to put the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired over the 4 year course into practice in a real working environment.”

Offering advice to other students looking to start their careers, Gerard said: “Look for something that interests you. If you’re just searching for any job that comes up, you won’t be happy and it’ll be reflected in the way that you work. You need to show that you’re enthusiastic and willing to learn.”