Blog
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Take a break with Jess Lewis
Publication date:
Join us as we sit down with members of the Ravensbourne community to hear about what they're up to, what they enjoy doing in their free time, and - most importantly - what is their favourite break-time snack?
Hi there! What is your name and role at Ravensbourne?
Hey, my name is Jess Lewis and I’m Head of Commercial Partnerships at Ravensbourne. I joined Rave last summer, this being my first ever role in Higher Education after 15 years in media, advertising, and influencer marketing.
It’s time for a coffee break! What’s your go-to drink or snack?
Timely question, I’m on one now and yes, I’m going to be that stereotypical ‘elder millennial’ who’s currently tucking into avocado on toast and a giant latte ;)
What do you do in your role at Ravensbourne?
I have two areas of focus: Heading up the strategic relationships with our commercial partners and growing our enterprise department, the StartUp Lab.
What’s the best part of the role?
I absolutely love meeting Rave’s future founders. There is no greater moment than when you hear the passion from our students around their game changing start-up idea. Even better if it’s a business that is solving a huge societal problem – goosebumps every single time.
We are opening up our doors again in April for students to come down and pitch their ideas and I cannot wait.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
A typical busy day would normally consist of a juicy pitch where we are presenting our creative ideas to a potential new partner, followed by hosting our StartUp Lab student founder programme, rounded up with an afternoon of brainstorming new initiatives with the team.
What are you most looking forward to right now?
The Creator Academy event we are hosting with Bulla Co on Thursday 23 May. We are collaborating with all the major social platforms and influencers to talk about how creators can turn their socials into a successful brand or business.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Your gut is always right, trust it.
Quickfire questions!
I can’t stop listening to… always 'The National', it never changes. We even named our daughter after our favourite National song, Ada.
People should watch… 'One Day' on Netflix, probably the saddest series I’ve ever watched. Still crying.
My favourite place to go in London is… the Natural History Museum, it has been my fave since I was teeny, and now my six and three year old feel the same.
I recently got into… skincare. It might be too late though, so pray for me.
