Our Industry 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.
For our last profile we spoke with HBT managing director David Hayes.
This time we speak to MediaCom global ECD Gemma Hunter.
Duration in current role/time at the company:
I’ve been global EDC since April 2016 and head of MBA since 2010 when I launched the department.
How would you describe what the company does?
We solve problems for our clients - any problem related to engagement with their audience.
What does your role involve?
My role is simple it’s also my purpose; I work for the team, I’m here to nurture, mentor, coach and develop great leaders so they can do the same.
Within the last six months/year, what stands out as the company’s major milestones?
We’re amidst a cultural transition at MediaCom. We’ve built our vision, goals, and objectives from the ground up with the whole agency involved, every voice has been heard. We’re hungry, focused and stronger than ever, you can feel the energy pulse through the offices.
Best thing about the industry you work in:
The people, clients, my team, my peers, audiences who chat to us about what they think, it’s the people we do this for and with that matter.
Previous industry related companies you have worked at:
MTV Networks Europe, TBWA London, Kiss FM (radio, UK).
Career-wise, where do you see yourself in three years time?
Right here at MediaCom as a global leader in MBA, but which country I will be in or what time zone I’ll be working in on what day who knows.
What is the elephant in the room? The thing that no one is talking about – but they should be.
Creative agencies are no longer the only place to get ideas. Great ideas can truly come from anywhere. In my experience, sensational ideas grow when you support unconventional teams, feed curiosity and support adventurous spirit. That’s when the magic happens. That means fishing in the same pool for creatives or ideas, or swimming in that same pool your whole career, is actually bloody stupid - imagine how many people have peed in that pool…
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I doubt there is one thing. I’m a pretty open book, ask me and I’ll tell you.
Top networking tip:
Don’t network, chat to people about what they are interested in and listen, really listen. Everyone is interesting if you take the time to talk.
My favourite restaurant for a business lunch is:
Dependent on the city I’m in:
Sydney – Chiswick
Melbourne – The Press Club
London – Oxo Tower
NY – Wild Air
Milan –10 Corso Como
My favourite advert is:
It was the moment I knew I had to make stuff and even though I had no formal art training I had to find a way, it changed everything for me…
My must-have gadget is:
A pen and paper, keep it simple, let it flow, doodle – you can’t do any of this on a fitbit.
My favourite media is:
Everything, I love the possibility and the brain ache constant evolution of channels gives me and my teams.
My favourite TV show is:
Depends what mood I’m in but it will be made by the BBC and either drama or doco.
The last book I read:
The Spy by Paulo Coelho.
My mantra / philosophy is:
Team is Family.
I got into advertising because:
It’s wondrous.
If I wasn't doing this for a living, I'd be:
I can’t imagine doing anything else, I totally and utterly love what I do.
In five years' time I'll be:
Looking in wonder and awe at all that my teams have achieved.
Define your job in one word:
Nourishing.
What's your poison:
Good French Champagne.
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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