Marley’s story
Sussex gave me the courage to channel my ambition beyond a single linear path. As I move into the next stage of my career, I feel like anything is possible.” Marley Ahmed
Business and Management (with a professional placement year) BSc
Assistant Manager for Communities and Partnerships, adidas
“My passion for business grew over time. Initially, I was interested in finance and even connected with a mentor at Citibank but became increasingly drawn to social impact and corporate social responsibility. I wanted to understand how organisations can influence positive change, so when it came to writing my personal statement, I knew I belonged in the business world.
I chose Sussex for its commitment to entrepreneurship, scholarships, and study abroad initiatives. I was determined to make the most of every opportunity, so secured internships with the Civil Service and a local anti-bullying charity. Other highlights included an internship with executive search firm, Spencer Stuart, and a life-changing Summer School in Singapore.
The graduate market is super competitive, so I knew a Placement Year would help me stand out in the crowd. I liked the idea of applying my degree, so spent a year at the Sussex Innovation Centre, where I rotated around different client-facing projects. I worked with the Sussex Entrepreneurship programme, created marketing content for events organisations, and supported SMEs with SWOT analysis, which helped me understand how organisations operate in practice.
After graduating, I spent a year in the Civil Service Fast Stream, which offered incredible opportunities to learn and grow. I could have stayed and built a successful career there, but a friend encouraged me to take a risk and apply for a very different role with #Merky FC, Stormzy’s collaborative partnership with adidas. It felt daunting to pivot from a more traditional corporate path, but I trusted my instincts and decided to go for it.
Three years later, I’m Assistant Manager for communities and partnerships, which encompasses everything I’m passionate about: purpose-led collaborations, youth engagement and brand marketing. It’s a privilege to work in a role I love which offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences - I never thought I’d be standing in the box at the Champions League Final with my favourite manager, José Mourinho!
Sussex gave me the courage to channel my ambition beyond a single linear path. As I move into the next stage of my career, I feel like anything is possible.”
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