Our Young Gun profile takes a look at some of the young talent across the advertising, adtech, marketing and media sector in Australia. It aims to shed light on the varying roles, people and companies across the buzzing industry.
Today we speak to Seven strategy executive Joseph Cilia.
Time in current role/time at the company:
I've been in my current role for two years, and at the Seven Network for four and a half years.
How long have you been in the industry?
Eight years.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
While I had always aimed to join the Seven Network, my plan never got any more detailed than that. I usually just go with it, taking every opportunity that comes up - which is often the best plan.
After spending a few years at an ad and exhibition agency developing my skills, my plan happened. Over the last four and a half years at Seven, I've gotten to where I am with hard work, focus, great mentors, and having fun.
At Seven, I've enjoyed working on new partnership projects, to now working on client and brand strategy for tentpole programs (Big Brother and SAS Australia are a few of my favourites).
Who is your right-hand person?
Less so an individual, however more so a team - 7RED (strategy, partnerships, and campaign management). From all levels in this incredible team, I am always learning something new and taking in all their practical advice that helps guide me through the day to day (no two days are the same in this industry!).
Outside of work - a combination of wisdom filled advice from my grandfather-in-law (91) and the simple solutions from my niece (4) has always been a healthy combo to guide any uncertainty.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
Working with the unseen teams who are behind the content, integration, and campaigns that reach millions of Australians. From the creative geniuses to the production hustlers - being the part of the content and storytelling journey that reaches literally millions of people is pretty incredible.
And the biggest challenge?
Technology is rapidly redefining the media landscape - however with challenge is always opportunity. I'm excited to be part of the change.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I aim big - so let's go with the CEO. Jokes aside, my sights are set on developing my leadership and strategic skills from the management team around me – to carry into my future job that probably hasn’t been created yet.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Truthfully, anything can inspire me. Depends on the day and my mood. A good burger to an Uber chat can inspire.
My favourite advert is:
At the moment, my favourite is Westpac’s campaign. Real and relatable to everyday big and small moments.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I write mystery and YA fiction. Maybe a side hustle in the making.
In five years' time I'll be:
Hopefully taking my African safari that 2020 cancelled, while having a break from a job that in equal parts still keeps me challenged and happy.
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