
How to prepare the next generation of digital performance marketers
In this episode of Marketers of the Universe, host Tom Inniss sits down with Michele Raffaelli—Senior Paid Media Manager at Brew Digital and guest lecturer at universities across Europe. Michele shares his non-linear path into digital marketing, explaining how a decade in retail and a process of elimination led him to discover a passion for paid search—a discipline that bridges creative messaging with data-driven performance. He also provides an insider look into higher education, discussing why marketing syllabi must be updated every six months to remain relevant, where automated AI ad features fall short, and what skills entry-level marketers actually need to succeed in an agency environment. Key discussion points Transitioning from retail to paid media Michele shares how testing various marketing channels like design and community management led him to paid search, where creative copy meets data analysis. Managing the short shelf life of marketing strategy Academic syllabi and tactical playbooks lose relevance quickly, making ongoing learning essential as advertising platforms and tracking rules change. Spotting the limitations of automated ad tools Unmonitored AI features like Google Performance Max and Meta Advantage+ can harm brand credibility when they run generic headlines or misinterpret peak sales periods. Bridging the graduate skills gap Early-career marketers require hands-on experience with tools like Excel and Google Analytics alongside strategic theory to deliver commercial value from day one. Responding to shifts in buyer behaviour Modern B2B and e-commerce buyers conduct extensive research online before reaching out, making digital touchpoints and social proof vital to campaign success. Building a data-driven culture Pairing creative instincts with empirical testing, seeking support early, and maintaining strong team relationships ultimately lead to superior account performance. Marketers of the Universe is brought to you by the clever folks at Brew Digital. We’re not your typical digital marketing agency; using an innovative approach to decision-making and collaboration, we help you create an impactful digital strategy that actually delivers results for your business. See what we can do for you at brewdigital.com














