After completing several work placements with the likes of The FA, Bromley FC, Boreham Wood & Gillingham during his time on UCFB’s BA (Hons) Multimedia Sports Journalism degree, Josh Keeble-Wells secured a full-time role as talkSPORT’s Social Media Community Manager in December 2021.
Here, the UCFB Wembley graduate reveals all on his role, his UCFB experience and offers some advice for future students…
Tell us about your role as Social Media Community Manager at talkSPORT and what it involves.
My role with talkSPORT involves overseeing the company’s social media accounts, offering support and help to our talented presenters in their use of social media and also moderating communities located in social networking sites.
What highlights have you experienced during your time in the role?
Covering this season’s Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Chelsea for our social accounts at Wembley was a huge highlight for me personally, but just working closely and growing my relationships with so many of our presenters and regular guests has been a huge honour.
You’ve also worked at the likes of Gillingham, Boreham Wood and Bromley, how did those roles help get you to where you are today?
Experience is everything. These work placements allow you to transfer the skills you learn in the classroom into the press box or news room, from each one of these placements I improved on my written communication and multimedia techniques, which massively boosted my confidence and cemented my desire to work in the industry.
How important are work placements and internships for students aspiring to work in sports media?
They’re absolutely essential, what you learn in your lectures and seminars is so important, but there is nothing like first-hand experience to fast track your development. Not only do you gain knowledge but you also build important relationships which will last your entire career.
What have you brought into the role from your time studying UCFB’s BA (Hons) Multimedia Sports Journalism degree?
In my role it is imperative that you have good knowledge of sports law, public relations and also crisis management techniques. All of which are covered in the Multimedia Sports Journalism course at UCFB.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
In five years’ time I hope that I have continued expanding my skillset and have progressed into my role at talkSPORT, whilst growing and expanding our social channels and team.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to study at UCFB?
Work hard and be consistent. Take full advantage of the opportunities you have whilst at University because you never know where they will lead you.
