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. Last week we spoke with WPP AUNZ data investment management CEO, Ben Dixon.
This week we chat to SoundCloud AUNZ commercial director, Shaun Alexander.
Duration in current role/time at the company:
Two months.
In one sentence, how would you describe what the company does?
SoundCloud is the world’s largest music streaming catalog that helps you share, discover and influence global music culture.
In one sentence, what does your role involve?
My role is to introduce brands and their agencies to SoundCloud’s unique and influential audience.
Within the last six months/year, what stands out as the company’s major milestones?
Last year, SoundCloud launched its consumer subscription service, SoundCloud Go, in Australia and New Zealand, in addition to rolling out advertising across its free offering. The subscription service and ads are now available in eight markets globally - with additional rollouts slated for later this year. Additionally, SoundCloud has been bolstering its suite of ad products and native solutions with the addition of video ads – giving brands even more, diverse products that help them connect with SoundCloud’s influential audience.
Best thing about the industry you work in:
Being surrounded by brilliant men and women who continue to blow me away with their constant creativity and innovation.
Previous industry related companies you have worked at:
Pandora and CBS Interactive.
Career-wise, where do you see yourself in three years time?
Leading a large, successful team at SoundCloud as streaming music becomes the default method of audio consumption for all.
What is the elephant in the room? The thing that no one is talking about – but they should be.
Where do all the people in our industry go when they grow up? What are we doing to keep people in advertising and harness their collective wisdom?
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I’m a fairly open book and find it hard to keep things to myself. If I have a wart I will probably show you. However as you asked, I’m always up for a chat on anything to do with surfing, fishing, skiing, the weather or rare soul records.
Top networking tip:
Listen. It’s not all about you.
My favourite restaurant for a business lunch is:
China Doll, Longrain or Buon Ricordo if I’m feeling nostalgic.
My favourite advert is:
The Cussons Imperial Leather ads from 1984. I’m still waiting for that future.
My must-have gadget is:
My trusty twin Technics 1210s.
My favourite media is:
Streaming music, of course.
My favourite TV show is:
House of Cards. Hurry up season 5.
The last book I read:
Dust and Grooves – Adventures in Record Collecting.
My mantra / philosophy is:
Live and let live.
I got into advertising because:
No one else would have me.
If I wasn't doing this for a living, I'd be:
Skiing.
In five years' time I'll be:
Still searching for that perfect song.
Define your job in one word:
Go
What's your poison:
A good cold climate chardonnay, a hefeweizen or a well made English Breakfast tea.
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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