Navigating Sales and Marketing: Insights from Ian Tottman's 'Meet the Professionals' Session

We were delighted to welcome alumni, Ian Tottman, for a special "Meet the Professional" session this week. Ian's career in Sales and Marketing spans Management and Board roles across diverse sectors such as Food, Health and Beauty, and Drinks. His visit offered an opportunity for our Year 9 students to gain insights from a seasoned expert in the field.

Ian's session delved into the intricacies of brand marketing, sales strategies, and general management within the industry. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he provided an overview of the nature of his roles, captivating the year 9 students with tales from his career progression. He recounted his own journey, highlighting the significance of seizing opportunities, such as a sponsorship placement with Cadbury during his university years. This initial experience laid the groundwork for Ian's ascent in competitive consumer goods categories.

Throughout the session, Ian shared stories from his corporate journey, offering glimpses into his roles at renowned companies like Cadbury Schweppes, Unilever, L'Oreal, and Pernod Ricard. From rebranding initiatives to advertising campaigns, Ian's insights highlighted the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of sales and marketing.

After the session, Ian fielded over 40 questions from the audience, ranging from inquiries about his career highs, and some lows, to reflections on his time at school.

A key takeaway from Ian's session was the importance of teamwork in driving brand success in marketing. He emphasized how critical it is to have a close relationship between marketing and sales and how important the team around you is. In conclusion, Ian gave invaluable advice to aspiring individuals looking to carve a career path in sales and marketing.