Meet the Team: From Rugby to Writing – Jacob’s Journey into PR
At Neo PR, we pride ourselves on delivering the gold standard in B2B tech PR. To do this, we’ve focused on building a dynamic team of industry enthusiasts who want to make a real difference within their local communities. So, without further ado, we are thrilled to introduce our latest recruit, Jacob, who joins us as a Senior Account Executive. A former professional rugby player with a degree in journalism and a wealth of experience in PR, Jacob is now ready to embark on a new adventure here with us! Read on to find out all about him and his journey to Neo PR.
A bit about me
From the rugby field to the world of words, my journey to Neo PR has been quite the rollercoaster! I’ve always been crazy about sports, and it all started when I got picked up by Wasps (formerly a professional rugby union team in the midlands) at an early age. After several good years there, I eventually joined up with Bedford Blues. But, the unpredictable nature of sports, marked by a few injuries, led me to make a pivotal decision – to embrace the world of academia. With a keen eye on the future, I applied for university to pursue a degree that would not only safeguard my post-sport career, but also help me discover a new passion whilst I was still playing. I explored various courses, but journalism stood out, prompting me to enrol. Since then I’ve been hooked on all things communications. When COVID-19 hit in my final year, I finally stepped away from professional sport to put my degree to good use.
Earning my stripes
My first venture into PR was as a PR executive with a specialist franchise agency based in Oxfordshire. This role was very hands-on from the get-go and allowed me to work with a mix of B2B and B2C clients across various sectors whilst developing a broad range of invaluable skills. However, all good things come to an end. After three years, I felt it was time for a new challenge and stepped away from the agency. However, between leaving and looking for a new job, I treated myself to a few months off to travel Bali and Thailand – a lifelong ambition. Following three AMAZING months out, I returned to the UK with a (disappointing) tan, hundreds of mosquito bites and – most importantly – an unbelievable desire to get back to work.
The world of Neo PR
Fortunately for me, it wasn’t long after my return that I was pointed in the direction of Neo PR. I interviewed with the Managing Director Ash, and Operations Director Jo, who were a complete breath of fresh air. The passion they had when talking about Neo PR and the clients they worked with was inspiring. It seemed to be the perfect fit. Since joining the company, I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to call myself a NeoPR’ian and everyone has been so welcoming, friendly and supportive. We have some fascinating clients and I can’t wait to play a role in their development. The future is really exciting.
To find out more about Jacob, you can follow him on LinkedIn here
