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Isabel Hockenhull, one of our T Level Management and Administration (Team Leadership/Management) students, is taking her entrepreneurial skills to the next level during her placement with Wild Grazers, a new equine start-up. As an Assistant Business Developer, Isabel has been pivotal in the set-up and development of this innovative business, which aims to provide horses with healthy, forage-inspired treats made from natural herbs.
Wild Grazers was founded by Sharon Hockenhull, inspired by her desire to provide her horse, Roman, with nutritious treats that reflect a horse's natural foraging habits. Unlike existing treats that often have high levels of sugar and unfamiliar ingredients, Wild Grazers fills a unique gap in the equine market with wholesome, hand-crafted products.
"This project began as an idea, but with Isabel's enthusiasm and knowledge, we've been able to take concrete steps toward launching a new product line. Her work has brought Wild Grazers to life." – Sharon Hockenhull
This career-enhancing opportunity, as part of her T Level course, has allowed her to lead on multiple key projects in the start-up of the business. Throughout her placement, Isabel has taken on key responsibilities, including marketing, product development, and industry research.
Isabel has taken on the role of pricing Wild Grazer’s products, calculating the price based on production costs and research to ensure their products were both profitable and suitably priced, commenting "It was essential to make sure the business could be successful while providing value to our customers."
Isabel also spearheaded the creation of Wild Grazers' website, showcasing the treats with professional photographs and crafting engaging content. Isabel believes the business having a strong online presence is important for driving sales, but also for “building trust with potential customers.”
Isabel has also been involved in the production of their products, perfecting recipes by conducting research into which ingredients provide health benefits for horses and which ingredients are available for foraging. Balancing both costs and health benefits, whilst keeping high-quality standards.
Isabel has praised her placement for the development of both her skills and confidence. Isabel believes her placement will prove invaluable in supporting her progression:
"I've developed creativity through designing the website, as well as commitment and determination in completing each task. These experiences will make me stand out to future employers and universities."
Sharon was full of praise for Isabel’s contributions to the start-up of the business, helping to lay the foundations and inject fresh perspectives on the direction of the brand:
"Isabel has brought a fresh perspective and has laid the foundation for Wild Grazers' success. She’s proven to be an asset with her ability to learn quickly, solve problems, and show initiative."
Isabel strongly recommends doing a placement, commenting:
"This experience has helped me uncover my strengths and values while gaining invaluable skills. It’s a chance to stand out and carve a path for your future."
Isabel has fully embraced this opportunity, gaining insight into life following her studies and building a brand that she can continue to work on and develop following her study.
Sharon was equally enthusiastic about placement opportunities, providing this advice to other businesses:
"Supporting a student like Isabel can breathe new life into your projects. They bring enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and knowledge from their studies, which can drive your business forward."
As Wild Grazers continues to grow, Isabel will play an ongoing role in the business after completing her studies, embracing her journey as a budding entrepreneur.
Isabel is also using the knowledge and skills gained on her placement to help further consolidate her studies.
For both Isabel and Wild Grazers, this placement marks the beginning of an exciting venture, proving how collaboration between education and industry can create real-world success stories. We look forward to seeing where Isabel’s story goes next.
A big thank you to Sharon and Isabel for supporting with this story and for helping to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
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