What is your role at Web Design & SEO Company?

I am a Content Executive based in WDSEO’s Plymouth office. My work mostly involves conducting keyword research and writing different types of copy for various websites, ensuring the content is engaging, informative, and optimised for search engines. It’s an incredibly varied role. For example, one day I might be writing a blog on luxury motorhomes in the morning and then searching for link-building opportunities in the afternoon. So, I’m never bored, which is absolutely brilliant!

What roles have you held prior to joining the WDSEO Team?

I come from an academic background, having completed a PhD in History back in 2013. I then lectured in Modern Russian and European History at Newcastle University and the Global History of Violence at the University of Exeter, which I absolutely loved. After leaving academia in 2019, I worked as an editor and website manager at an affiliate marketing company before moving on to a content and SEO role at a major e-commerce retailer, where I worked alongside Claire.   

What was your very first job?

Hmm, it was so long ago, I can hardly remember. My first paying job was a cashier at one of the cafeterias at university during my first year. I hated it so much that I quickly learnt how to cook and moved behind the grill! Incidentally, I still enjoy cooking to this day.

Do you have any hobbies/things you would like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy playing chess. I actually trained with a professional coach between the ages of 11 and 13 and seriously considered becoming a professional player – but ultimately decided against it. I still love the game to this day, though, and I’ve even kept all my chess books packed in boxes somewhere.

Other than that, I enjoy a game of billiards, but I’m afraid I’m quite rusty these days!

How many countries have you visited, and would you like to go back to any in particular?

I’ve lived in four countries, and I’ve visited another 13 or so (maths was never my strong suit, I’m afraid). Belgium is a particular favourite, since I love Belgian beer, among other things. I’d also like to spend more time in Switzerland, as I thoroughly enjoyed the few days I spent in Basel. But really, I wouldn’t mind going back to any of the countries I’ve visited or lived in – they all have their own unique charm. 

Tell us an interesting fact about you.

Back in 2000, I played the future chess world champion Veselin Topalov in a simultaneous exhibition. I lost the game, but I was one of the last few remaining amateur players!

Quickfire Questions:

Favourite Film?

Withnail & I. I know most of the lines by heart.

Favourite TV Series?

Black Books. Fun fact – my surname (Chernev) translates as ‘black’.

What football team do you support?

The team everyone loves to hate – Manchester United. Outside of England, I support Ajax Amsterdam and AC Milan.

Apple or Android?

Android

Favourite Book?

It’s a toss-up between The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov and The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde.

What genre of music do you like the most?

I grew up listening to the likes of Sting and Elton John, so I have a pretty eclectic music taste. Depending on my mood, it could be anything from English nu folk to German industrial rock! My favourite artist is Laura Marling.

Pasties or cake?

Pasties any day of the week!