PerformanceIN has partnered with the Internet Advertising Bureau (IAB) UK to provide the next generation of performance marketer with an opportunity to attend the upcoming Performance Marketing Insights: London conference for free.

The bursary scheme is aimed at those who have recently started working in the industry and have not previously attended the event; offering the chance to learn the mechanics of the always progressing performance industry, and to meet those who are leading the way.

In an industry that the IAB valued as having generated £14bn in online sales last year, with a return of £14 for every £1 spent, it is of paramount importance that the digital marketers of tomorrow are provided education on the crucial part performance should play in their marketing mix.

Keeping Pace

Last year saw the introduction of a fully funded bursary scheme for the first time, having previously offered successful applicants a part-paid ticket. One of those selected to attend as part of the bursary at last year’s event was Webgains’ Edward Pinnock.

With eight months’ experience as a marketing executive for Webgains, Edward attended with a foundation of knowledge to build on – keen to learn about performance marketing in more detail and meet the people involved. Speaking to the IAB following the event, Pinnock said: “As the digital marketing industry grows, education for new performance marketing professionals needs to keep pace.

“Exposure to other networks, advertisers, publishers and agencies gave me a valuable overview of the industry’s demographics and key players, which is important when my role demands a good knowledge of who is saying what in the media.

“The bursary scheme achieved a great deal for both winners and their employers.”

Education

The bursary is open to all demographics and encourages employees from agencies, advertisers, publishers, tech providers and networks to apply.

As the trade association for online and mobile advertising, the Internet Advertising Bureau (IAB) promotes growth and best practice across the industry – making the bursary a perfect fit to support.

The IAB’s Senior Programmes Manager Clare O’Brien commented, “This bursary provides the very best opportunity to immerse and learn about this rich and complex industry for a couple of days. Once again, the IAB is proud to support this fantastic initiative that all about talent development. We encourage everyone just starting their career in the Performance Marketing Industry to get their bursary application in fast!”

PerformanceIN managing director, Sarah Parsonage, spoke of the importance of education for those in the early stages of their performance marketing careers.

“As the performance industry continues to progress at a rate of knots, it is vital that the budget holders and decision makers of tomorrow are provided insight into the innovations and best practices taking place right now,” Parsonage said.

“Following a fantastic number of applications to last year’s bursary scheme, we’re happy to once again partner with the IAB to offer those taking their first steps in the industry a chance to attend the event for free.”

The event in London will boast a revamped agenda, alongside new networking features and technology showcases. Parsonage went on to say, “The bursary provides a fantastic platform for industry education, not only in the form of the all new Capture, Cultivate, Create session tracks, but also by offering the chance to meet with some of the most seasoned digital marketers.”

Applicants will need to complete an application form ahead of the September 30 deadline, after which a panel of industry experts will hand-pick those who will receive one of a limited number of bursary positions.