FreestyleXtreme – A UWE Jobshop success story

In the offices of FreestyleXtreme there are no claustrophobic cubicles or stuffy suits. In fact, many of the staff are dressed head-to-toe in the latest alternative fashion brands – each new place you turn you'll spot a Volcom sweater, a brightly-coloured pair of DC Shoes or New Era baseball cap. If the 'real world' is meant to be a scary and boring place then somebody forgot to tell these guys.

Based in St Philips, FreestyleXtreme is an e-commerce business specialising in action sports clothing and casual, who ship apparel from many of the aforementioned brands around the world. The company has long been involved with the UWE Jobshop and has hired a steadily increasing number of language students to assist with translating the content of their website. "It makes great sense for local businesses to employ through the UWE," says FreestyleXtreme Marketing Director Ben Richardson. "Doing so is something that benefits both sides. For students, it offers a chance for the practical application of expertise and learning what is relevant in a working environment. As employers, we get access to young, enthusiastic people working with the latest skill sets and a hunger to prove themselves."

As proof we need look no further than the corner of the office, where a young man sits behind a large Mac screen in his etnies hoody. Four years ago, Séan Kenny was hired through the UWE Jobshop and already rocketed through the ranks to become the company's Head of Design. "It is great to know that the skills taught in lectures can be put into practice. They really helped me develop," Séan tells us.

FreestyleXtreme actively promotes UWE Jobshop to local business partners as a source of young talent. They are also frequently on the lookout for staff to assist their rapidly-expanding business. Be sure to keep checking the Jobshop listings for your own opportunity!