•    advertising;

•    business or management;

•    communications;

•    IT or computer science;

•    marketing;

•    psychology.

Employers often like marketing candidates to have good analytical skills and to be aware of digital media techniques, so subjects that demonstrate these skills will be helpful.

•    communication and interpersonal skills;

•    analytical skills;

•    the ability to use initiative;

•    the capacity to work under pressure;

•    creativity;

•    drive;

•    flexibility;

•    numeracy;

•    teamwork;

•    influencing and negotiation skills;

•    oral and written skills;

•    business awareness;

•    IT literacy.

•    liaising and networking with a range of stakeholders including customers, colleagues, suppliers and partner organisations;

•    communicating with target audiences and managing customer relationships;

•    sourcing advertising opportunities and placing adverts in the press or on the radio;

•    managing the production of marketing materials, including leaflets, posters, flyers, newsletters, e-newsletters and DVDs;

•    writing and proofreading copy;

•    liaising with designers and printers;

•    organising photo shoots;

•    arranging the effective distribution of marketing materials;

•    maintaining and updating customer databases;

•    organising and attending events such as conferences, seminars, receptions and exhibitions;

•    sourcing and securing sponsorship;

•    conducting market research, for example using customer questionnaires and focus groups;

•    contributing to, and developing, marketing plans and strategies;

•    managing budgets;

•    evaluating marketing campaigns;

•    monitoring competitor activity;

supporting the marketing manager and other colleagues.

•    There has been an increase in marketing internship opportunities.

•    Self-employment or freelance work is possible, although this is more common for experienced marketing professionals.

•    Career breaks and secondment opportunities are a possiblity.

•    Opportunities exist in most large towns and cities but are less common in rural areas.

•    Marketing executives can sometimes be expected to network and socialise with a range of stakeholders and customers to build and maintain relationships.

•    The work can be stressful when meeting tight deadlines, juggling various projects at any one time and relying on external suppliers, but it can also be very rewarding.

•    A formal dress code and working environment is usual.

•    Travel within a working day can be frequent. Absence from home overnight may be occasionally required. Depending on the organisation, the role may demand international travel.

•    The overall average salary is £45,021, with the alcohol, automotive and the TV industries providing the highest wages.

•    Salaries vary greatly depending on the sector but on average the salary for a marketing manager is £38,192, while senior brand or product managers earn an average salary of £48,296.

•    The average salary for a marketing director is £86,165. Certain sectors offer higher wages and so pay increases may come with moving sectors rather than having lots of experience in one area.

Some organisations offer additional benefits including profit-sharing schemes, medical insurance, gym membership, company car and bonuses.

Income data from Marketing Week/Ball & Hoolahan Salary Survey 2014. Figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

Working hours are generally 9am to 5pm. Some evening and weekend work may arise when organising or attending events, or when working on a big marketing campaign. Paid overtime is rare, although some organisations will offer time off in lieu.

Part-time work is possible. Short-term contracts are also available, generally through recruitment agencies.