James Barry, PR Executive

James Barry, PR Executive, Mitie, said: “Joining a FTSE 250 Corporate Affairs Team at 19 as an apprentice was daunting at times, but each day has brought a new challenge, and it’s been the best possible place for me to grow a career in communications. Less than three years on and I’m applying my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the business and the team around me.

“I’m not really one to shout about my successes, but I’m immensely proud of the work I have produced since joining the industry, from running events to creating news stories, safeguarding Mitie’s reputation and securing our seat at the policy table. I have grabbed as many opportunities as possible over the past three years, which has enabled me to nurture a diverse set of skills across comms and beyond.

“I’m establishing myself as a trusted advisor to Mitie’s leadership team, leading on the media relations programme for the Chief People Officer (who requests my counsel on comms for Mitie’s skills agenda) the Decarb team on the electric vehicle roll out, as well as advising the Chief Legal Officer on reputational issues.

“I’m excited to accelerate my communications career, growing my skills further to move through the ranks. I look forward to working on many exciting project to come, and to exploring which doors my skills might open for me.”