Emilia Kolbjørnsen

About me

  • Head of Marketing at Sabura Sticks & Sushi, Norway 
  • BA (Hons) Business Administration with International Business, 2011 and MSc International Business Management, 2012

ABOUT MY CAREER 

I chose Manchester Met for a few reasons. I had done quite a lot of research on different universities in the UK for my year abroad and Manchester Met was ranking high on the lists, especially on the business courses which aligned with my career goals.  

And then there’s Manchester itself! The city’s culture and diversity are truly unique. I loved the idea of being in a place where there’s always something happening, where I can easily access the rest of the world (decently priced flights) and meet people from all around the world. 

Once I had graduated, I relocated to Norway and started applying for various roles, I was not quite sure what I wanted to work as. Through my network I came across an F&B concept that was searching for a market coordinator. I decided to send the hiring manager an email and apply directly to them. I went through several rounds of interviews and was offered the job!  

I currently work as the Head of Marketing at a Norwegian-based F&B franchise concept. We have over 38 stores all over Norway and I oversee all areas of marketing efforts and brand exposure, both online and offline. I also occasionally do freelance work in translation and marketing. 

The presentation skills I cultivated during my course empowered me with the confidence to deliver presentations to different audiences and facilitate workshops. Also, by working with classmates from different backgrounds for group projects, I have learnt different ways of doing things and thinking, which has been very helpful in my job. 

Since graduating, I’ve been all about levelling up my skills in marketing, data analysis and e-commerce. I’ve taken certifications such as Google Analytics, Google Ads and HubSpot Inbound Marketing to dive deeper into analytics and digital strategies. Plus, I’m constantly attending workshops, online courses, and industry events to stay in the loop with the latest trends and tech. Networking and learning from fellow marketers have also been really important to me. 

MY TOP TIP FOR STUDENTS IS 

Always keep learning and keep connecting. Never stop picking up new skills, whether it’s through classes, certifications, or workshops. And don’t forget to mingle! Networking is key. Get out there, and meet people in your industry, online or offline. You’ll be amazed at the doors it can open and the insights you’ll gain. You have to be in it to win it. Also, do not be afraid to apply for a job even if you don’t have ALL the qualifications they ask for. 

I’M INSPIRED BY 

Female leaders.

WHY I LOVE MANCHESTER MET 

Absolutely everything. I would have done it all over again if I could go back in time. 

Tell your story