First-ever ticketing apprentice qualifies

The Ticket Factory is continuing its commitment to the next generation of ticketing talent, as the first-ever ticketing apprentice qualifies and a new hire is made within the business.

Melissa Halling, 22, has become the inaugural ‘customer service practitioner – ticketing’ apprentice, while Maia Sanger, 19, is embarking on her one-year apprenticeship journey and will hope to follow in her footsteps.

The Ticket Factory became the first employer to participate in the industry first ticketing apprenticeship, which trains apprentices on providing a high-quality service to customers within the ticketing industry.

Melissa, who graduated earlier this month, said: “My apprenticeship was a great experience and I learned so much – and I’m of course extremely proud to be the first ever ticketing apprentice.

“Throughout my 12 months I learned lots about the industry, customer service, as well as working on shows and liaising with promoters. I also had the chance to get involved with the marketing and social media teams, which was helpful for me.

“I think apprenticeships can be fantastic for young people and I would truly recommend it to any young person looking to get their foot on the ladder. If you have energy and a love for live music and concerts it really is a great thing to do.”

Meanwhile, Maia is getting to grips with her new role after deciding university wasn’t for her.

She said: “I wanted to do something different, to work and learn at the same time, and I jumped at this opportunity with The Ticket Factory.

“I’ve been able to see how the whole ticketing process works and it has been so interesting to learn. From working at our dedicated contact centre, I’ve been involved in the on-sale process which has been exciting. Alongside this I’ll be studying and working on different ticketing modules, with an end-of-year assessment and observation.”

As well as being the NEC’s box office, selling tickets to shows at Arena Birmingham and Resorts World Arena, The Ticket Factory tickets for events across the UK in sectors including music, theatre, sport, comedy and exhibitions.

Richard Howle, director of ticketing for the Ticket Factory, said: “We are always on the lookout for new talent and we are thrilled that Melissa has qualified from her apprenticeship – and excited for Maia to get stuck in to hers over the next 12 months.

“We are proud to work alongside STAR and the National College Creative Industries on this initiative and our ticketing apprentices form a valuable part of our team. This apprenticeship will provide a fantastic qualification within the industry and will equip Maia with vital skills that will hopefully lead to a long and successful career in ticketing.”

Industry experts assess apprentices throughout their time on the programme as they work towards their qualification, with the course being jointly developed by the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR) and National College Creative Industries.