Jake Costello

Hi there, welcome to my bold profile!
I’m Jake – a 23-year-old strategist about to embark on a new adventure in the Big Apple!

I graduated from the University of Limerick with a degree in Marketing and Management. After finishing university, I jumped into a remote role with Vision Consulting, a small but dynamic Irish management consultancy firm. The fast-paced, ever-evolving nature of consultancy hooked me from day one. But over time, I found myself craving something that Zoom calls and Google messages couldn’t offer – the energy of real human interaction.

Working from home made me realize just how much I value connection. At university, the buzz of campus life, group projects, and lively discussions kept me engaged. In contrast, remote work – while rewarding – felt like it lacked that spark. This realization led me to think bigger. I wanted to put myself somewhere vibrant, where creativity thrives on collaboration. New York felt like the perfect place to reignite that sense of connection and curiosity.

At the same time, I started reflecting on the parts of my degree I was most passionate about. I kept coming back to my marketing communications and strategic brand management classes – the ones that sparked the best debates and broke down brand campaigns in ways that made me think. In my spare time, I dove deeper, listening to podcasts and reading up on the strategy behind the ads I loved. That’s when I stumbled upon the role of a strategist – and it felt like everything clicked.

To sharpen my skills, I enrolled in Julian Cole’s Strategy Finishing School, where I’m learning to craft insights that help brands form deeper, more meaningful connections with their audiences. Now, as I prepare to make the move to New York, I’m ready to take on new challenges and grow as a strategist in a city driven by culture, creativity, and connection.

• Coached young athletes with the Carrick-on-Suir Athletics Club.
• Volunteered with the Carrick-on-Suir St. Vincent De Paul in 2018 and 2019.

References available on request.

Julian Cole's Strategy Finishing School Student

Google Analytics for Beginners

Bachelor's Degree in Business Studies

Academic

• Graduated from the Bachelor of Business Studies Programme at the University of Limerick with Second Class Honours Grade 1
• Achieved A1 grade on Strategic Brand Management paper entitled "Brand Strategy Analysis of Victoria's Secret".
• Achieved A1 grade on Final Year Marketing Leadership project, in which an integrated awareness campaign was planned for the Kemmy Business School.
• Won "Best Academic Performance" in 5th year of secondary school (high school).

Sports

• Came 1st in the National Schools All Ireland Track and Field Championships in the Long Jump in 2018. Came 2nd in 2017 and 3rd in 2016 in the same competition.
• Came 2nd in the National Junior Track and Field Championships in the 4x100m relay in 2019.