Our Industry Insights Profile takes a weekly look at some of the professionals working across the advertising, ad tech, marketing and media sector in Australia. It aims to shed light on the varying roles and companies across the buzzing industry.
Previously we spoke with Toby Codrington, CEO APAC and global CMO at marketing and communications firm Williams Lea Tag. This week we head to Sydney to meet AdColony director of sales, Zak Vidinovski.
Duration in current role/time at the company:
Seven months
How would you describe what the company does?
AdColony is one of the largest mobile advertising platforms in the world with a reach of more than 1.9 billion users globally.
What does your role involve?
I am responsible for building the commercial and strategic direction for AdColony’s mobile-first clients in Australia.
Within the last six months/year, what stands out as the company’s major milestones?
AdColony has the second largest SDK integration globally. AdColony’s Aurora mobile video, launched in June this year, gives marketers access to powerful graphic capabilities, in-screen interactive content and other native mobile capabilities that result in immersive user experience for the viewer. This is a game-changer in the mobile creative category, something both brand and performance marketers have been waiting for.
Best thing about the industry you work in:
You never stop learning, constant innovation and great people.
Previous industry-related companies you have worked at:
VEVO, Southern Cross Austereo, News Corp, Fairfax, Mi9.
Career-wise, where do you see yourself in three year’s time?
Helping AdColony continue grow their global presence, develop deeper partnerships and push the boundaries of video innovation.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
Property, motorbikes and mountain hiking. You got three.
Top networking tip:
Be curious, ask lots of questions and give your full attention.
My favourite advert is:
Google bringing old friends back together.
My must-have gadget is:
My Beats by Dre on international flights. “Thank you god”.
My favourite media is:
Netflix.
My favourite TV show is:
Suits.
The last book I read:
The E-Myth: Why most Small Business Don’t Work and What To Do About It. (Trust me, it’s a solid read)
My mantra / philosophy is:
Stop making excuses and make something happen.
I got into advertising/ad tech/marketing etc because:
In my younger years, I loved art, digital design, sketching – coming up with ideas. In my university days technology really started taking off and I was fascinated about it. I want to do both, Advertising and Technology. Funny how things turn out.
If I wasn't doing this for a living,
I'd be: Airforce.
In five years' time I'll be:
I will definitely be in the same industry. I am excited to see how advertising evolves with technology. Think about it, we are already talking about virtual reality as an advertising concept. That is insane!
Define your job in one word:
Rewarding.
What's your poison:
Jameson Whiskey with a touch of sparkling and not too much ice.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.