Regarding my career direction I’ve always felt lucky in that I realised early on that I wanted to work in some capacity within the music industry. With this in mind I was acutely aware that in order to make myself more attractive to employers I needed to build a strong CV of work experience and internship placements, something I did at a number of companies invested in the creative field (Remedy TV, FRUKT Music Intelligence, Bella Union, Warner Bros. Records). From a music television production company to both independent and major record labels I gained a strong knowledge of how different areas of the industry operated.

However, it wasn’t until I saw an internship advertised on WEXO that I really felt that I’d found the role that would directly lead me into the career line I wished to follow – that of music syncing and licensing. Whilst there were a number of outstanding opportunities advertised on the website it was the fantastic position as a music intern at Platinum Rye Entertainment that I hoped to gain. The company is the world’s largest broker of celebrity and recording artist talent for ad campaigns and PR events with recent campaigns including both Friendly Fires and Bat For Lashes for Gucci, The Beatles for Hugo Boss and the recent Lucozade advertisements that have been the talk of the town! I was therefore eager to apply as there really would be no greater education in this sector…

Having submitted my profile I was fortunate enough to be asked to interview with the two UK Directors of Music, following which I learnt I had been offered the role and I was elated! From the get-go I felt like a valued member of the team and was immediately involved in a range of tasks – from music searches to administrative responsibilities I felt that I was gaining the most invaluable experience I could have hoped for.

It’s safe to say that without the WEXO team and and the STEP scheme (which paid me a training allowance commensurate with National Minimum Wage) I would never have had this opportunity to work at such a great company that has hands down provided the best working environment I’ve ever experienced. It even looks like I might be staying here a bit longer…

Tara Lynch

Thinking about the future can be daunting, especially if you are undecided about which path to follow. When I graduated from Edinburgh University early this year, reality kicked in that I needed to immerse myself in the job market. Constant reminders of bleak employment statistics proved discouraging for my future.

Although I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the media and entertainment sector, there are very few recruitment agencies that specialize in this field. A friend mentioned she had signed up to WEXO and managed to secure interviews at a number of great places.

As soon as I searched in the media column, a range of work experience, internships and jobs came up for the most fantastic companies. I applied straight away to a portfolio of companies to broaden my chances but my heart was really set on one company in particular – Platinum Rye Entertainment – to work as a celebrity and music intern!

It seemed luck was on my side, and after an interview with the MD of the company I was given the opportunity to work with Platinum Rye. I was made to feel one of the team straight away and was given the responsibility to focus on research for commercial deals between brands and celebrities. Platinum Rye source the best celebrity for an advertising or PR campaign, as well as securing the rights to hit songs for a commercials – we have worked with a number of high-profile celebrities, including Sienna Miller for the Hugo Boss advertising and Naomi Campbell, Eva Herzigova, and Claudia Schiffer for the Dolce and Gabbana campaign.

I have worked in a number of companies over the last 7 years and Platinum Rye has been by far the most exciting and enjoyable business I have been involved with. Without the help of WEXO I would have never been given this incredible opportunity……

Issy