Giusi Coppola, Project Management Officer, FDM (10 year career break)
I originally come from Italy but have spent the last 20 years living and working in London. I went to university in Naples and carried out a PHD in Foreign Languages and Literature. Shortly after completing my degree, I moved to the UK to perfect my fluency in English.
Over the years, I have built up a wide range of experience across several sectors, including investment banking, fashion, and marketing, in roles ranging from Business Analyst to Programme Coordinator and Investor Relations. But after the birth of my kids, I took a career break and spent the next 10 years looking after my family.
During my time off, I continued to keep busy, getting involved with various projects including helping the launch of a boutique hedge-fund service. I also worked with my daughter’s primary school and developed an interest in the discipline of yoga, training as an instructor.
When I decided to return to work, I researched several returners programmes and came across FDM. When I found out they offered a fully funded training programme and a salary from day 1, I was eager to pursue this path. I am now placed as a consultant within the IT department of an international law firm, working as a Project Management Officer.
The training at FDM effectively combined both hard and soft skills. It comprised little bytes of knowledge that were useful and transferable. Coming from a non-technical background, I did find some of the modules a bit tricky, but with one week allotted per subject, it was enough time to grasp the material.
The FDM training was central to my confidence development and professional growth. I was also impressed by how in-depth it was and believe that it is the perfect platform for professional rebirth.
The recruiters have a wealth of experience and can recognise the best fit for you. They know what you’re aiming for and where your full potential will be realised. The only advice I would give is put your trust in FDM! I am coming up to my first year in my current placement and believe that FDM has given me a feeling of being part of a community, where you’re looked after and listened to.