Developing with Dell Technologies: Bradley's Experience in the Marketing Development Program

Bradley E. | Assistant Editor, Brand Publishing | Analyst, MDP | Austin, TX

Originally Published: December 15, 2022

The Marketing Development Program is designed to attract and retain top talent from Colleges, Universities, Community Colleges and Vocational Programs, as well as Diversity & Inclusion conferences to build the marketing talent pipeline. Program members experience four 6-month rotations with different marketing teams, gaining valuable hands-on experience and exposure to various marketing disciplines. Members also get access to exclusive trainings, career coaching, executive exposure, and networking opportunities to help accelerate their success at Dell.

Bradley, a current second year Marketing Development Program Member, reflects on his journey over the years. His first role was as the Global Client Solutions Group (CSG) Product Launch Lead on the Commercial Creative team, and he is currently the Assistant Editor on the Brand Publishing team. Read more about his time with the program and how it has shaped his career:

How did you start your career with Dell Technologies and how did you get involved with the Marketing Development Program?

I started interning with Dell Technologies in the summer of 2020 as a Global Communications Intern. I heard about the internship opportunity for the first time in the American Marketing Association Club's newsletter at the University of Texas. They were promoting the Dell Night event, and I knew I had to go! I attended the event that year and really loved the people and the company's mission, so I applied. I eventually met with the recruiters at the McCombs Career Expo again, and then shortly after, I was called back for an interview and accepted the internship position. Upon graduation, I accepted a full-time position in the Marketing Development Program in 2021.

What were your first thoughts about the program? My first thoughts about the Marketing Development Program were that it seemed like a great opportunity to try out various roles within Dell and collaborate with a cohort of new graduates. I did not have any doubts about joining the program, but I was nervous to start my first career after college remotely. However, I soon realized and embraced the many benefits of remote work. Please share a bit about your current role and any past roles you’ve had within the program. My current role is the Assistant Editor on the Brand Publishing team. In this role, I help edit and publish Perspectives articles, Trailblazers podcasts and the Realize magazine for upper-funnel storytelling that helps drive brand love for Dell Technologies. I also created and maintain an Adobe Analytics dashboard and SharePoint site for the Brand Publishing team. Lastly, I create social posts on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to promote new articles and podcasts. In my previous role as the Global CSG Product Launch Lead, I owned product launches and brand refreshes for Chromebook Education, Chromebook Enterprise, and Wyse software lines of business.

As a member of the program, you can rotate between roles and gain experience on different teams. How do you feel about being on a team momentarily?

I have loved both the teams that I have been a part of so far. Every team has a designated team buddy and these mentors have made the transition and learning process so easy and engaging. I love that I have had the opportunity to work with such passionate teams in my rotations.

What surprised you the most about the program and your time with Dell Technologies?

I have been most surprised by the amazing opportunities offered within the program. The rotational roles available cover every area of marketing I could ever desire to pursue. The community of recent graduate coworkers with similar experiences and supportive attitudes has also been an incredible part of my time in the program and at Dell Technologies.

What is your favorite part about being a member of the Marketing Development Program?

My favorite part of the Marketing Development Program is the collaboration within and between cohorts. I love how each member in the older cohort takes initiative to mentor the younger cohorts. Having experienced both learning from and serving as a mentor in the program, I have learned so much about networking, creative solutions, and the unique passions that drive my peers.

Are you still able to make an impact being the only MDP member on your team and are your inputs valued? I am able to make an impact through individual contributions to my specific rotational roles that add value to the team and company. My recommendations are welcomed and encouraged, and I’ve had the chance to own multiple projects on these teams. Additionally, the program enables me to add value as the leader of the MDP Community Service Committee. Here, I work with the other committee members to organize and execute quarterly in-person and virtual service events.

How has the program contributed to your success at Dell Technologies?

I attribute much of my success at Dell Technologies to the MDP. I am so grateful for the opportunity to find my passion for writing and editing stories, while I expand my network by connecting with supportive individuals throughout their career journey. I love being able to give back to the younger cohort and my fellow MDPers through mentorship and the Community Service Committee.

Would you recommend the program to other graduates?

I would strongly recommend the program to other graduates. I believe the values of trying out different roles in Dell Technologies’ fast paced and creative environment is an invaluable experience for any new graduate.

To learn more about graduate programs at Dell, visit jobs.dell.com/graduates.