Jessica Fitz-John

Member of the Dean’s List, class of 2025

Community advocate and a dedicated leader

Jessica’s passion for equestrianism has been her driving force throughout her four years at the Management School. From joining the Equestrian Club in her first year, she excelled taking on active leadership roles. After serving as Social Secretary and Club Secretary, she achieved her goal of becoming Team Captain in her final year.

A dedicated advocate for riding accessibility and inclusivity, Jessica saw a gap in the club for riders who didn’t make the team. She addressed this head-on by implementing the club’s first ‘Development Squad,’ providing opportunities for aspiring riders, preparing them to ultimately  make the team. To further improve accessibility, Jessica organised fundraising events to subsidise entry fees for the Regional Championships, ensuring all members could take part. She also co-launched a ‘Buddy Day’ initiative welcoming beginners into the club in a safe, well-organised environment. 

Jessica’s dedication and  professionalism led to a new partnership between the University’s Equestrian Club and local Cloughfields Equestrian Centre. Despite the centre’s previous reluctance to host university teams, Jessica not only persuaded the centre to host the team during her tenure as captain, but laid the foundations for this partnership to continue in the future. 

A rising star in the professional world

Jessica has been committed to gaining professional experience throughout her studies. She completed a 70-hour internship at the Entrepreneurs Business Club, a non-profit networking organisation, and held a part-time position at the Students’ Union. Jessica excelled during  her 13-month placement at Pricecheck International Brand Partners, quickly progressing into the Brand Team in the role of Brand Assistant.  

Jessica made such an impact at Pricecheck going above and beyond her role, she was recognised as ‘Rising Star,’ nominated for the ‘Employers Choice’ award, and was offered a part time role on the team as Marketing Assistant during her final year. 

Giving back 

Beyond her academic and equestrian pursuits, Jessica is dedicated to giving back to the community. She has contributed her marketing skills to the mental health charity Mind and raised funds for Teenage Cancer Trust completing the ‘28 Miles in September’ challenge. 

She also co-organised and participated in activities including a Charity Hobby Horse Hike to raise funds for Sheffield Children’s Hospital, and during her placement year, contributed to Pricecheck’s 1,000 Hours of Good achievement one month ahead of target by leading the organisation of volunteering and fundraising initiatives for charities including Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospital.  

Jessica gave back to her student community by sharing her insights from her placement year, by organising and leading a ‘Marketing Challenge’ workshop to over 30 students, guiding them through the real life stages of planning a marketing campaign. Demonstrating her impressive commitment, Jessica completed the Sheffield half marathon and the Edinburgh marathon earlier this year.