Electrical Wholesaler Grows Team With New Digital Marketing Apprentice
- gracebell7
- 41 minutes ago
- 3 min read
A fast-growing electrical wholesaler has strengthened its team with the appointment of a new digital marketing apprentice.
Harbro Electrical, based in Peterlee, has welcomed Jessica Gowling, who is undertaking a Multi-Channel Marketing apprenticeship with Baltic Apprenticeships.
The new role was created by owner Phil Harbord to support Harbro’s continued business growth, with a focus on strengthening the company’s online presence and social media activity.
A key part of the recruitment journey was the support provided by Dawn Jarvis, a Growth Hub Connector at the North East Growth Hub. Dawn played a pivotal role in understanding Harbro’s ambition to bring in an apprentice who could develop alongside the business.
During a meeting with Phil, Dawn learned of the company’s desire to invest in someone who could grow with Harbro over the long term. Recognising the importance of the right skills and mindset, she began exploring suitable options.
Shortly afterwards, Dawn met with Laura Pearman, owner of Laura Pearman Creative. Laura mentioned Jess, an aspiring digital marketing professional who had been completing an unpaid internship to build industry experience after facing challenges entering the sector.
Seeing a strong match between Harbro’s needs and Jess’s ambition, Dawn facilitated an introduction between Phil, Laura and Jess. This simple yet impactful connection led to Jess being invited for interview and ultimately securing the apprenticeship.
Jess, 20, from Sunderland, said: “I was working on an intern placement with Laura Pearman Creative when I was told about the position at Harbro.
“After a successful interview, I started at the end of October and I’m really enjoying it.
“As digital marketing apprentice, I’m in charge of our social media content, including filming, editing and posting. I’ll also be responsible for email marketing campaigns, and eventually I’ll be working on Harbro’s website.
“I studied photography and graphic design at college, so being able to apply those skills in this role is a huge bonus. Everyone has been so supportive, and I’d love to stay on permanently after my apprenticeship.”
Harbro Electrical traces its roots back to 1994, originally operating as Steadfast Electrical and later Steadfast Retail in Horden. Continued growth saw the business relocate to Whitworth Road on the South West Industrial Estate and adopt the Harbro Electrical name.
Today the company is run by Managing Director Phil Harbord, his brother David, and wife Jackie. Harbro now employs 11 staff and has a £2m turnover.
Phil said: “The business is well established with a strong client portfolio and loyal customer base, but we were missing someone to spearhead our digital growth.
“When I interviewed Jess, I knew she was the perfect fit. She brings skills we didn’t previously have in-house and she’s already proving to be a fantastic asset.”
Dawn Jarvis said: “I’ve known Phil for a long time and knew he needed someone who could help expand the business’ digital footprint.
“Jess showed so much potential during her time with Laura, so I’m thrilled she was successful at interview and that she’s doing so well and enjoying the role.”
Laura Pearman, who continues to mentor Jess, said: “During Jess’s internship it was clear she had a strong foundation of skills and was eager to develop further. This apprenticeship, alongside hands-on experience, will give her everything she needs to become a valued member of the Harbro team, they are very lucky to have her.”
The North East Growth Hub provides one-to-one tailored support designed to help businesses access the tools, connections and funding they need to grow. In Harbro’s case, Dawn was delighted to help meet a local business need by bringing the right people together at the right time.
