Our Industry Profile takes a look at some of the professionals working across the advertising, adtech, marketing and media sector in Australia. It aims to shed light on the varying roles and companies across the buzzing industry.
This week we speak to Clemenger BBDO Sydney client services director Jade Clark.
Time at the company:
Four months (I started the week after we went into lockdown).
How would you describe what the company does?
We use creativity to solve problems.
What do you do day-to-day?
From creative reviews to forecasts, to digging deeper into our clients’ business problems to guiding team members, to deciphering pitch briefs. I do lots of talking and even more listening. No two days are the same.
Define your job in one word:
Wrangler.
I got into advertising because:
During my uni days, I worked at the Commodore Hotel. I served someone from an agency a drink and we got chatting. That led to my first full-time job. I’m still in advertising because I love it.
What’s the biggest challenge you face in your role?
There’s always more to do. It’s a blessing and a curse. I love being busy which is why I love what I do but I’m also a mother of two young children and sometimes it’s hard to switch off.
What’s the biggest industry-wide challenge you’d like to see tackled?
Diversity. It’s an incredible industry to be a part of - one which focuses so much on the human condition and changing behaviour, and one which thrives with people who think differently. The more diverse we become, the better we will be.
Previous industry-related companies you have worked at:
I did most of my ‘growing up’ at CX Lavender, an incredible company where I was pushed to be my best. I’ve also worked client-side at the Sydney Swans and Tourism Tasmania.
Notable ads/campaigns you have worked on:
I’ve worked on so many phenomenal projects (not just ads/campaigns). However, I’d say my most recent notable campaigns would be Come Down For Air and The Off Season for Tourism Tasmania. It’s been remarkable to work on two campaigns for a brand – one as the agency and the other as a client.
Who is/has been a great mentor to you and why?
I’ve had many people over the years who have helped me, guided me and ultimately invested in me. If I had to name someone though, it would Gayle While - she’s smart, insightful and she cares. She’s an amazing sounding board.
Words of advice for someone wanting a job like yours:
Be yourself. You’ll meet people who will want to change you, who will want you to do things ‘their way’ – don’t. If you’re true to who you are, do things ‘your way’ – you’ll succeed. That’s not to say you shouldn’t take on board people’s advice. I’ve learnt a lot from others, but I’ve also learnt that you’re most effective when you’re you.
If I wasn't doing this for a living, I'd be:
Making CWA scones and jam (this will make more sense if you keep reading).
My mantra is:
I have two:
1. Your integrity is your most important asset.
2. You can say anything to anyone - it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.
My favourite advert is:
At the moment, it’s Burberry ‘Open Spaces.’ It really makes you feel their freedom, which is pretty pertinent at the moment with Sydney coming out of lockdown. Plus, it’s really beautiful.
Music and TV streaming habits. What do you subscribe to?
The usual suspects - Netflix, Spotify, Stan and Disney+
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I almost gave up my career up to become a farmer’s wife.
In five years' time I'll be:
Who knows? That’s the exciting thing about our industry – it can lead you anywhere.
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
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