Zain shares his journey from University placements to global marketing roles, now leading as Chief Marketing Officer at electric car company, Peec Mobility.
After graduating in 2015, Zain Shaikh began his professional journey with Red Bull TV, where he took on the role of Program Marketing Manager. In this position, he was responsible for the creative marketing campaigns surrounding the channel’s television shows. Over time, Zain advanced within the company and became an International Brand Marketing Manager at Red Bull Media House, operating out of the brand’s global headquarters in Austria.
While studying BA (Hons) Marketing Management, Zain made the most of available work experience opportunities, including a one-year industry placement that spanned several different companies. Reflecting on this time, "It proved to be especially helpful when applying for graduate jobs, giving me that extra year of work experience.” Zain said.
During his placement year, Zain held a range of roles. He worked as a Public Relations Intern at Adidas and Debenhams, served as a Brand Developer for Waitrose, and was a Marketing Assistant at Mintel, among others. He attributes this hands-on experience as a major factor in securing his role at Red Bull TV. “Experience is everything. Sure the degree matters but the work experience is what differentiates you from everyone else. Do internships, work experience, research. It’s all valuable.” he said.
"My time at University was very enjoyable and valuable. The lecturers were incredibly helpful and supportive and always available for careers advice. The course allowed me to get a strong understanding of marketing from both a client and agency side."
— BA (Hons) Marketing Management graduate, Zain Shaikh
Following his roles at Red Bull, Zain went on to become the Creative and Brand Strategy Lead at Chalhoub Group, a leading luxury retail business in the Middle East. In this position, he worked on brand management, customer experience, and growth strategies for major fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, and FENDI.
Zain currently works as Chief Marketing Officer at Peec Mobility, an electric car company. Peec’s mission is to transform petrol vehicle fleets into electric ones, contributing to the shift towards sustainable transport. The company also runs Peec Studio, where they design and produce limited-edition luxury electric cars inspired by under-represented subcultures from around the world.
During his University years, Zain also participated in LaunchPad, a leadership development programme aimed at helping students build their professional and personal capabilities. Talking about LaunchPad, Zain said: “It was a great chance to meet people who have similar ambitions to yourself. Until you’ve done something like LaunchPad you won’t realise how valuable the experience is and how much you will learn.”
