Our Industry Profile takes a 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.
This week we speak to Gumtree trading desk & programmatic manager Paul Bertelle.
Time in current role/time at the company:
Three years.
How would you describe what the company does?
Gumtree is a vibrant marketplace, connecting people locally and enabling them to buy, sell and find almost anything.
What do you do day-to-day?
Help brands better connect with the millions of shoppers on Gumtree through our rich first-party data and audience insights.
Define your job in one word:
Relentless.
I got into adtech because:
I strive on the fast-paced nature of the industry and was drawn in by the constant push for innovation and technological advancements - it keeps me on my toes and ensures that I continue to stay ahead of the game.
What’s the biggest challenge you face in your role?
Ensuring I keep up with the rapid pace of change and innovation in marketing and advertising technology, which continues to push boundaries.
What’s the biggest industry-wide challenge you’d like to see tackled?
Trust continues to be the key issue for marketers and technology – we need to earn the trust of our consumers by being transparent and delivering value
Previous industry related companies you have worked at?
Nine Network, Videology and The Video Network.
Who has been a great mentor to you and why?
Sarah Wyse has been there for me from the start of my career in media and has helped me push my own boundaries to find what I’m capable of achieving. When in doubt, she is always there to challenge me, remind me that ‘we aren’t saving lives’ and make sure I have fun along the way.
Words of advice for someone wanting a job like yours?
Be hungry to learn and embrace change.
If I wasn't doing this for a living, I'd be:
Picking olives on a farm in Italy with my wife Bridget and our Golden Retriever, Luna.
My mantra is:
"Find three hobbies - one that makes you money, one that makes you fit, and one that makes you smarter” - Naval Ravikant.
My favourite advert is:
Qantas – I still call Australia home and the advert pulls at my heartstrings.
Music and TV streaming habits. What do you subscribe to?
On my commute I listen to a wide range of podcasts (Rich Roll, Planet Money, Intelligence Squared, The Daily, Big Ideas); at work it’s time for Spotify (Rap, R&B, Jazz Rap, Indie Rock/Folk, House); and at night I stream Netflix, Prime and Kayo Sports (on the iPad, so I don’t get into too much trouble).
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I’m a huge fan of SNES and N64 - I still own the consoles and regularly play Donkey Kong 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Banjo.
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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