At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and execute marketing plans for exciting Microsoft products like Xbox and Surface.
- Company: Join Microsoft, a leader in tech innovation with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Earn £25,200 per year while gaining invaluable experience over 3 years.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities to learn from industry experts.
- Why this job: Kick-start your career with real projects that make a difference from day one.
- Qualifications: No degree needed; just 5 GCSEs and 3 A-levels or equivalent by September 2026.
The predicted salary is between 25200 - 25200 £ per year.
Overview
Location: Reading
Duration: 3 years
Salary: £25,200 per year
Start Date: September 2026
Being a Microsoft Apprentice - Ready to kick-start your career and make an impact? As a Microsoft Apprentice, you’ll earn while you learn, build real-world skills, and work on projects that matter from day one. No coffee runs here—you’ll have a full employment contract and a seat at the table, shaping ideas that drive change.
The Consumer and Channel Sales and Marketing (CCSM) organization works with ecosystem partners to build, market and sell a winning portfolio that delights customers and earns fans around the world. CCSM is a great part of the Microsoft business to make an impact because:
- We uniquely provide the opportunity to touch every consumer, student, SMB and enterprise with devices and experiences and simply make daily life and tasks more productive and fun.
- We are at the forefront of Microsoft’s intelligent Cloud/Edge strategy as the guardians of the intelligent edge that drive the intelligent cloud.
- Every commercial customer is a consumer and we have the critical responsibility to win their mindshare both inside and outside the office.
- Every day we get to work with the most recognized consumer brands in the world.
- We get to work with and learn from some of the smartest consumer minds in the tech industry.
- Our jobs are fun as we get to launch cutting edge consumer products such as Xbox, Surface, Windows and M365.
- We get to work on landing new cutting-edge business models aligned to the cloud and digital transformation.
The Channel Marketing Manager Apprentice is the specialist marketing manager creating and establishing our Category Marketing plans that represent both the Category’s and partner ambitions. In this role, you will need to be able to clearly articulate the story both internally and externally to our UKI Managed Retail Partners. The Channel Marketing Manager Apprentice collaborates with key stakeholders in the CCSM UKI organization but will build a rapport with the Regional Teams too.
Responsibilities
What will I do in this job?
- To start, you will shadow a Channel Marketing Manager in the team—learning who we target, who we compete against, how we convince consumers to purchase Microsoft hardware and software.
- You will learn how to create a strategic marketing plan for the category that includes a clear vision for the future, actionable objectives, aligned marketing investments and measures of success.
- The role will involve taking sole responsibility for the delivery of critical marketing assets for our Retail Partners for both online and offline execution.
- To execute this plan, you would learn how to collaborate with a broad set of stakeholders across the consumer division at Microsoft locally, including account managers and Partner marketers.
- You will learn how our channel partners work, both online and physical stores. You will understand their businesses, what motivates them & how Microsoft can help them achieve their goals.
Qualifications
- No degree yet (this is your launchpad!)
- 5 GCSEs (including Maths & English, grades A*-C or 9-4)
- 3 A-levels (A*-C), BTEC Nationals, T Level, or equivalent by September 2026
What do I need to be successful?
- Apply entrepreneurial and innovative thinking to identifying and executing business opportunities.
- Ability to analyze market data, draw relevant conclusions, develop accurate business plans and spot market opportunities.
- Build and drive program execution.
- Possess high standards for performance and compliance.
- Ability to influence multiple stakeholder groups.
- Must be able to effectively articulate technology and product positioning to internal audiences.
This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances.
If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Channel Marketing Manager Apprentice in Reading
✨Get Involved in Marketing Communities
Dive into online marketing forums or local meetups to connect with professionals who are already in the game. Places like MarketingUK or even social media groups can give you insight into what companies like Microsoft Corporation are looking for in young talent.
✨Show Off Your Projects
If you've done any marketing projects, even if they were for school, create a portfolio showcasing your creativity and skills. It can really help us see your potential, especially when applying to an apprenticeship like Channel Marketing Manager Apprentice at Microsoft Corporation.
✨Join Apprenticeship Schemes
Keep an eye on apprenticeship schemes targeted at marketing roles. Many companies, including Microsoft Corporation, participate in these programmes. They’re often advertised through universities or local employment agencies, so don’t forget to check there!
✨Utilise Social Media for Visibility
Show your passion for marketing on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram. Share articles, write posts, or even create short videos about marketing trends. Being active online can increase your visibility and get the attention of recruiters at Microsoft Corporation looking for apprentices.
We think you need these skills to ace Channel Marketing Manager Apprentice in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Creativity:In the world of marketing and communications, creativity is key! Share any projects you've worked on, whether it's a social media campaign for a friend or a blog you've written. Don't just tell us you’re creative – show us what you've done!
Tailor Your CV for Marketing:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience, even if it's from school projects or part-time jobs. It’s a good idea to include skills like content creation, social media management, and any digital marketing tools you’ve worked with, such as Canva or Google Analytics!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express genuine interest in the apprenticeship with Microsoft Corporation. Let us know why marketing excites you and what you're eager to learn. Be enthusiastic – we love a bit of passion!
Portfolio Perks:A portfolio can really set you apart! Even if it’s just a collection of school projects or personal initiatives, include examples of your work that reflect your style and approach to marketing. Think of it as your visual resume that shows what you can do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Microsoft Corporation
✨Show Off Your Creative Side
In the marketing-communications field, showcasing your creativity is key. Bring examples of past projects or campaigns you're proud of – even ones from school or personal passion projects. We all love a good story, so make sure to explain your thought process behind each piece!
✨Be Ready for Some Real Talk
Expect to encounter practical scenarios or case studies during the interview. The team at Microsoft Corporation might ask you how you’d handle a specific marketing challenge or solicit your ideas for a current campaign. Don't shy away from showing how you think on your feet – it’s all about demonstrating your problem-solving skills!
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, it's all about potential and learning. Be prepared to discuss what you're hoping to gain from the apprenticeship at Microsoft Corporation and how you plan to apply the skills you learn. We want them to see your enthusiasm for growth and curiosity in the field!
✨Research Current Trends
Stay on top of the latest trends in marketing-communications, particularly any recent campaigns or tactics by other brands. Bring up these insights in your interview – it shows that you’re proactive and passionate about the industry. Plus, it’ll give you plenty to talk about when discussing potential strategies for Microsoft Corporation.
