Meet the Team - Dylan McKirdy

Meet Dylan, Our Marketing & Commercial Coordinator. Dylan started with us at the end of March, interning whilst still at college and has recently taken on this new role. Dylan has played a key role in KUDO’s brand development and awareness initiatives since its inception, and also takes care of our social’s channels (he didn’t write this part though as he’s too modest!). We asked him some questions about both him and what led him to the role he’s in today.

How did you get into this industry?

As part of my college course I completed a work placement unit, during which one of my lecturer’s recommended KUDO to me. When I sought out this opportunity, they mentioned they were looking for a part-time intern on a permanent basis. After three months and following my college graduation, I was offered a full-time position at KUDO.

What does a typical day look like?

My daily routine primarily revolves around managing our LinkedIn presence, which includes tasks like content creation, scheduling posts, and more.

Additionally, I oversee both the front-end and back-end updates of our website, focusing on aspects such as SEO and posting articles. I also take charge of planning events that our team attends, including conferences, and I organise our exhibitions.

I’m the one posting this!

What was your career path?

Since I was 16, I had been employed in fast food, gradually advancing to a shift management position while pursuing my studies. I initially studied Film & TV, then transitioned to Marketing, Advertising, and PR, which inspired me to seek a career in marketing. Eventually, I secured an internship at KUDO, marking the end of my fast-food journey when I was offered a full-time position.

What’s an after-work hobby of yours?

I generally just spend time either with my girlfriend, going out to eat or having a drink. I also spend some time in the gym.

I also really enjoy watching wrestling, there’s something hilariously entertaining about watching someone put another person through a table.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I got my first passport in November 2022, and since then, I’ve travelled to 14 different countries.

While it may not seem like a large number, for someone who didn't leave the country until turning 20, it feels absolutely surreal.

What do you enjoy most about working at KUDO?

This is my first experience in an office setting, and I have been genuinely amazed by the support I’ve received in adapting to it. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and has taken the time to help me understand how things operate in this environment.

What’s the best career advice you have ever received?

Talk to anyone and everyone, everyone is a connection. In marketing it’s all about who you know, build as many connections as you can.

The people sat next to you in education are likely to be the people you see in the industry down the line, so bear that in mind.

What career advice would you give someone wanting to be in your role?

I wouldn’t say that I’m far enough into my career yet to be qualified to give advice!

If there is one thing though, it would be to simply keep going and you’ll eventually get to where you want to be.

What’s an accomplishment in or out of work you’re proud of?

Getting to where I am now. I had a small part of me back during the pandemic that thought I was going to be stuck working in a job I just didn’t find fulfilling anymore, and now I’m doing something I genuinely enjoy.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

I don’t really have one specific place in mind that I’d like to go, I just want to see as many different places as I can whilst I’m able.

I’m sure somewhere like the Maldives though would be great…