Tell us about your journey into your role at Seven West Media?
When the Head of Agency role at SWM popped up, I was working at Nine in TV Sales and was approaching 8 years with the business. Nine was my first job in media, and I quickly developed a passion for the innovative, fast-paced and ever-changing nature of our industry.
I had been yearning for the opportunity to expand my skillset into digital and print media, so when the Head of Agency role became available, I was eager to dive in. Being given the opportunity to work for WA’s largest media company, and one that is entrenched with such a strong connection to the WA community, is not something I take lightly.
I am overwhelmed with the kindness and generosity of everyone at SWM that has guided me through my first 8 months with the business. The Head of Agency role seemed like the perfect challenge for me, and it has been everything I hoped for and more.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
No day is the same, which is what keeps things interesting. My core focus is on supporting the agency team to deliver superior business solutions for our clients and grow revenue across our team.
A typical week involves various external meetings, with our agency partners and direct clients, to understand more about their business challenges and how we can help them.
One of my favourite things about SWM is how innovative we are, there is always a new product or commercial offering. We are currently in market with our quarterly ’15 Minutes of Fame’ presentation, which gives an overview of all the exciting things happening at SWM. Clients have been especially impressed with the early success of The Nightly and our penetration into the East Coast market.
Collaboration with other internal departments is another key focus of my role, whether that be working with the Inspire team to uncover audience insights that will guide our brief strategy or to working with the Seven team on cross-platform partnership briefs. We are lucky to have so many intelligent, proactive and helpful people in this business, which makes collaboration seamless.
Who or what inspires you the most?
I am most inspired by people who are not afraid to be themselves, have a go and show vulnerability. I am drawn to leaders who possess these traits, and I really appreciate an open and honest conversation. I also have an amazing support system of family, friends and my husband who all inspire me daily.
What is one of the most rewarding projects you’ve worked on at Seven West Media?
The Agency All Stars initiative, where we celebrate outstanding agency partners with a monthly award, has been an immensely rewarding project. It’s important to give back and recognise those who embody our values of ‘making it happen’, working ‘better together’, and ‘be brave’ in their collaborative efforts.
If you could give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
Embrace discomfort, because that is where the magic happens when it comes to personal and professional growth.
What does leadership mean to you?
I have always believed that you can lead from any position. To me, leadership is a state of mind, and is built around the courage to be yourself, stand up for what you believe in and get the best out of others.
In my experience as a leader, learning how to adapt your approach depending on the person and the situation is a critical skill in helping team members to thrive and grow.
What are three things people might not know about you?
- I am absolutely DOG-SESSED and just so happen to own the cutest dog on the planet, Marcy the Aussie Shepherd.
- I love the colour pink, and really need to have a ‘pink-tervention’ with myself to stop buying pink clothes.
- I LOVE a moist chocolate cookie (with milk on the side).