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.
Previously we met Blue 449 performance manager Daniel Humphreys, today we speak to Zenith digital account manager Claire Sheely.
Duration in current role/time at the company:
Over a year and a half in my current role, but over three years at Zenith Media.
How long have you been in the industry?
Three years and three months.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
Initially I wanted to be a creative, but that dream was short lived after I completed a copywriting course.
Thankfully, I was lucky enough to have a fantastic tutor at University who was working in the industry and got me interested in a career in media.
I made sure I kept in contact with her after the course and asked her to keep me in mind when an internship became available. My persistence paid off, as about six months later, my tutor got me in for an interview. I’ve been working at Zenith ever since.
Who's your right hand person/who guides you day to day?
My head of digital, Chris Thomas. Chris has been a great support and mentor over the last few years. Also my exec Vijay Samuel is a star and makes my life so much easier.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
The people. They are, by far, one of the best parts of the industry. I thrive on a great culture, which the media industry delivers in spades. There is also a great network across the Brisbane market and I enjoy how close everyone is.
And the biggest challenge?
One of the biggest challenges is how quickly the digital environment changes. I have to be on my toes and open to a constantly evolving environment. Just when you think you have a grasp on the industry, it changes. From viewability and brand safety to automation and blockchains, there is never a dull moment.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I would love to have the opportunity to work as a partnership manager. My passion is building relationships both internally and externally, as well as creating a positive culture within a business. I would love to have a role that focuses on cultivating and maintaining relationships with clients and media suppliers.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
The people around me. I am lucky to be surrounded by extremely talented, intelligent and creative people. I love brainstorming with my colleagues and friends, as they give me fresh perspectives and new insights.
My favourite advert is (and why):
Metro Trains' Dumb Ways to Die. It is simple yet effective and has a super catchy tune.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I am very open at work, so I would be surprised if there was anything they didn’t know. If I had to say something, it’s that I have a complicated love-hate relationship with eggs.
In five years' time I'll be:
Working towards my goal of running my own consulting business specialising in staff wellbeing. Having spent a number of years working in the advertising industry, I know how busy it can be and how it can sometimes be hard to manage a work-life balance.
I believe having happy and healthy employees is crucial for success, which is why I would love to be able to work with businesses to build a thriving work culture and drive positive wellbeing for all staff.
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
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.