Skill Share Spotlight: Unpacking the World of Marketing with Marketa Kristlova   

We were delighted to welcome Marketa Kristlova to host a Skill Share session exploring the dynamic world of marketing. With over 16 years of experience in FMCG marketing, primarily in the chocolate sector, Marketa brought a wealth of insight, sharing highlights from her career journey that has taken her from Prague to Germany and the UK, working with iconic brands such as Cadbury, Milka, and Belvita. She currently works as Marketing Manager for Healthy Biscuits at Mondelez. 

Marketa introduced marketing as a unique blend of science and art, where data and intuition come together to drive creativity and results. She emphasised that great marketing stems from a deep understanding of the consumer. Success in this field, she explained, lies in the intersection between brand growth, business results, and creating a positive impact on society. 

One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of building a personal brand. Marketa encouraged everyone to reflect on their values, strengths, and passions. Knowing what energises you, what you’re good at, and what you can be paid for is an essential step in shaping a fulfilling career path. 

She also shared invaluable career advice, encouraging participants to experiment with different roles, whether in brand, agency, or research, to better understand their preferences. Embracing a growth mindset, staying curious, being resilient, and building strong relationships were highlighted as key traits for success in marketing. Above all, she reminded us that company culture matters, and intuition often plays an important role in finding the right fit. 

For those looking to dive deeper, Marketa recommended a few brilliant resources including podcasts like Uncensored CMO, Marketing Week, The Squiggly Career, and books such as Alchemy by Rory Sutherland, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, How Not to Plan by Binet & Carter, and How Brands Grow by Byron Sharp. 

As a follow-up to the session, participants were encouraged to complete the 16 Personalities Test and reach out to Marketa with any further questions or for advice. Her session was not only insightful but also a reminder that marketing, at its best, is about understanding people, telling compelling stories, and making a real difference. 

“Thank you very much for the invite and it was pleasure to share my career journey and why I like marketing with so engaged audience.

As usual I got loads from it and it was great to hear everyone’s reflections and questions. I wish interns best of luck with building their personal brands and roles experimentation – enjoy the journey!” Said Marketa.

Jen Sweeney, Corporate Engagement Manager, TPT said:

“This was a wonderful, thought-provoking session from Marketa, who shared such valuable insight into the creative world of marketing. From practical tips to inspiring reflections on her career journey, it was both informative and engaging. I learned a great deal and I’m sure our interns came away having gained something new too.”

Gareth Dawson, Get Set Progress Internships Coordinator said: “Our interns gained a great deal from listening to Marketa. It is an integral part of our development methodology to bring first-hand, real-life experience, direct from professionals to our interns and we really appreciated Marketa’s time and energy.” 

Thank you to Marketa for an insightful and empowering session! 

Interested in Hosting a Skill Share Session? 

If you’d like to deliver a Skill Share session for our blind and partially sighted interns, staff, and volunteers, we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact Jen Sweeney jen.sweeney@pocklington.org.uk or 07508 958914 to discuss how you can get involved.