A role in marketing and communications can incorporate a variety of roles but an ability to interact with a wide range of people in both written and verbal forms is often essential.

Chris Peters, recently appointed as the co-ordinator for media relations and marketing for USA Hockey's national team development program, demonstrates the fast-paced environment in which marketing professionals often work.

In addition to co-ordinating all marketing efforts associated with the scheme, he is also the main point of contact for media enquiries regarding both the US national under-17 and under-18 hockey teams.

Furthermore, he works alongside the association's national office to promote the sport at all levels in the US.

Mr Peters' marketing work has also involved overseeing event promotions, media and public relations projects, and publishing work - including producing material for different mediums such as USA Hockey magazine.

According to the US Department of Labor, marketing and communications jobs are found in virtually every industry. These much sought-after positions require a high level of creativity and strong communication skills.

In 2006, there were 583,000 jobs in marketing, communications and related fields. Average earnings for marketing managers in May of that year stood at $98,720.