Our Young Guns profile takes a weekly look at some of the young talent across the advertising, ad tech, marketing and media sector in Australia. It aims to shed light on the varying roles, people and companies across the buzzing industry.
AdNews is trying to bridge the gap between the upper ranks of the industry and shine more light on the generation coming up through the ranks.
Last time, we spoke with The Story Lab content director Claire Crennan. This week we speak to Seven West digital group sales manager, Ebba McLean.
Time in current role/time at the company:
Seven months
How long have you been in the industry?
About Seven years
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
I always knew I wanted to work in digital, but straight out of uni I didn’t really know the path to take or real world jobs out there.
I was lucky to land a full-time role at Howorth Tech Public Relations straight out of uni, working across tech companies like Hitachi Data Systems & Citrix.
As a 23 year old the world of data systems and desktop virtualisation didn’t seem as appealing as travelling abroad, so I packed my bags and headed to the South of France to work on super yachts for a stint.
Not as glamourous as it sounds (or the TV show), however I did have a far better experience than my mates living in London braving the cold at the time.
Returning to Australia my friend was working at OMD and connected me with the NSW Sales Director at Authentic Entertainment.
There began my media career in digital- and I have never looked back since.
I’ve pushed and worked hard along the way which now brings me to launching 7Plus and building the Seven Digital team in Melbourne.
I’m that type of person that says “I love my job” when I talk to people about what I do.
Who is your right hand person/who guides you day to day?
James Bayes, national digital sales director is incredibly supportive in helping drive not only the way we go to market but also the culture we’re trying to create as a new team.
We often say Seven Digital is like a start-up, so we’re all responsible in creating the culture and can-do attitude that encourages and supports ambition and innovation.
I’ve been lucky to have amazing mentors as part of my career and personal journey, and value the significance they have made on my life. I don’t think I would have got where I am or remained sane without a support team.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
The people! Incredibly smart people, that challenge and inspire you to be and think better. Passionate about the work they do and out of the box thinkers. And some of the most amazing best friends, mentors and work wives for life!
And the biggest challenge?
A favourite buzzword of mine is “pivot” and I think that’s one of the biggest challenges, we must constantly pivot in an ever-changing industry.
OTT is the future of TV, despite significant growth and huge audience numbers there is a massive education piece on CTV for advertisers. It’s exciting and challenging at the same time.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I’m inspired by incredible female leaders like Sheryl Sandberg and Arianna Huffington that encourage women to “sit at the table,” seek challenges and take risks.
I haven’t set my sights on a job title, I’d love to set my sights to help empower and inspire the next generation – whatever that role is!
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Lots of places, but at the moment its “How I Built This” Podcast
My favourite advert is (and why):
An absolute cult classic! Not happy Jan has become part of Australian culture. My mum still says it!
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I’m a qualified Padi Dive instructor and have my power boat licence. Not very good at either, but hopefully will come in handy one day!
In five years' time I'll be:
In a role where I’m learning and constantly challenged.
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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