We have always been a big advocate when it comes to investing in the development of young creative talent. . . .

Having employed over ten graduates in our ten years, we are now taking our commitment to local progression to the next level with an apprentice themed competition that has just closed with those immortal words, YOU’RE HIRED!

Partnered with The University of Bolton, we set out to find our 2009 Apprentice with a three month trial placement up for grabs for the winning candidate. The illustrious boardroom panel, MD, Karl Barker, Creative Director, Karen Newman and Phil Ogden, selected the strongest five creative design students from their ‘end of year show’; an exhibition held at The University of Bolton where each student presents their headline course work accumulated over their three year degree course. 

The five candidates where then brought into our Bolton studio for a week to work up some ideas for an apprentice styled project predetermined by a live piece of commissioned work.

The standards where very high but the judges managed to whittle down the process to the strongest two for a head to head showdown and the prize of being hired.

The final was a tense affair with both candidates working a full day on their winning idea. Under the watchful eye of their very own Alan Sugar, Managing Director Karl Barker, the two apprentices were allocated a series of design led tasks to assess how they fared under the pressure of a busy studio environment. The judges looked for creative flair, commercial judgement and overall ability to follow and execute a brief to a specific deadline.

After a lot of ‘boardroom’ deliberating the apprentice was finally chosen. The deserving winner was 22 yr old, Michelle Buckley, who has started her new job as Cube’s junior designer this week!!

Michelle commented:

“The current economic situation has made it a tough year to find employment and even more difficult for graduates such as myself! I am thrilled to be offered the position at Cube³ and feel honoured to be joining such a successful agency.”

Carol Allison, Programme Leader for Graphic Design at The University of Bolton added her comments:

“I think the apprentice incentive offered by Cube³ has been a fantastic way to introduce graduates into the working arena. Their commitment to the University has been inspiring; taking six of our graduates into their helm over the years.

“As a teacher you always want the best for your students and it’s humbling to see them succeed in the ‘real world’.”

Managing Director, Karl Barker commented:

“It is imperative that companies like ours invest in graduates and up and coming talent, not only to benefit from a fresh canvas for new ideas but also giving aspiring designers the inspiration to follow their career goals and be the best.”

We wish Michelle all the best in her new role! :o)

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