As part of an ambitious plan for growth in 2018, Newport-based Simply Factoring Brokers has taken on a new member within its marketing department.

Portia McGrath, 25, has joined as a marketing intern, which is the first stage of a marketing expansion that will see a series of interns arrive over the coming months.

Head of marketing Shaun Thomas said: “There is a considerable shortage of skilled marketing professionals in South Wales. We changed our recruitment process to focus on skilled graduates who are still eager to learn and the results are proving profitable.”

Over the course of a year, Portia will learn the ins and outs of the finance industry and will be develop skills that will benefit her marketing career immensely.

Portia worked as a charity salesperson before joining the team at Simply Factoring Brokers, but her background is in graphic design. While not strictly a linear path, graphic design features heavily in marketing and that’s where Portia sees the value taking an internship.

Portia said: "I am thrilled to join Simply Factoring Brokers. This is a wonderful opportunity, and I am looking forward to learning as much as I can during my internship. While learning, I will also be working hard to provide a helping hand to the rest of team, and hope I can prove myself as a valuable addition."

Managing director Steven Adams said Portia's appointment marked another step in Simply Factoring Brokers' development plans.

He said: "We are expanding our team and look forward to furthering our recruitment efforts in the coming months."

Simply Factoring plans to take on a second intern in April.