Annie. Account Executive - Advertising

Annie is a twenty-four-year-old Account Executive at a London-based creative advertising agency. She has been in her current role for one year.

How did you get into your field and what inspired you?

‘I've always loved adverts and had a genuine interest in how brands make themselves relevant. As I grew older I realised that not everyone enjoyed advertising as much as I did and many people saw it as more of an annoyance. However, good advertising becomes part of culture and can really inspire people or stir emotions. It was my interest in trying to understand this that inspired me to join the advertising industry. I got into my field after spending 8 months at a media agency, which gave me a good spring-board to move over to the creative side. Recruitment agencies and networking were key in landing my current role.’

What did you study at university and did this help you get into your field?

‘I studied English Literature and History. Although not directly relevant to my current field, they taught me useful analytical and writing skills.’

Do you recommend any particular studies, courses or degrees for your field?

‘I personally don't think you need to study advertising to get into the industry and actually think that as long as you're passionate about the business it's good to have diverse skills. Good adverts are made by a diverse work force. I would recommend doing something similar to the IPA foundation certificate, which gives a really good basis to the fundamentals of the industry.’

What does an average day look like in your role?

‘There isn't really an average day as an AE, as you work on every stage of the creative process from strategy right through to live date. Essentially you are the fulcrum of the agency, acting as the middle-man between agency and client and ensuring that the day to day runs smoothly. My job is to ensure the best creative work is being made, whilst also achieving the clients business and marketing objectives. My role often includes booking meetings, attending shoots, ordering food, checking props, client liaison and plenty of socialising!’

What is the best part of your role?

‘For me, the best part of my role is all the people I get to work with. I love getting under the skin of an issue and finding the answer to complex issues. I also love working under pressure to tight time frames - which in advertising there is a lot of! I work best when I'm very busy, so this suits me.’

What is the worst part of your role?

‘The worst part of my role is that it can sometimes be very admin heavy and I can feel like I'm not making as much of a contribution to the work as I would like to.’

How important is work/life balance to you and how much spare time do you have?

‘Work/Life balance is essential, but it's also important to have a job that you enjoy so when occasions arise where you have to stay late you don't feel bitter about it. Adverts are everywhere in daily life, so I find even when I'm relaxing I'll still be consuming advertising and using those observations at work.’

Do you have any hobbies?

‘I spend a lot of time socialising with my friends at the weekends. I think going to the gym after work is a really important way to burn off steam and stay physically and mentally healthy. I love the theatre and try and go at least once a month, whilst also eating my way through Londons incredible restaurant selection!’

Do you have any advice for people looking to start a career in the same field?

‘I think networking is key! Internships are also a really good way of getting your foot in the door. Be super proactive and friendly and have an opinion on your favourite and current work.’

Have you ever experienced any uncertainties about your career and what did you do to overcome them?

‘I often experience uncertainties in my career path, but I think this is very natural. We live in a world that focuses on comparison with your friends and industry peers. I often get stressed about job satisfaction compared to financial gain, as often the two don't equate. I've also tried a fair few different jobs. After uni I did a PR internship for 8 months, I then went travelling for a year to try and figure out what I wanted to do. I came home and worked in a media agency which was invaluable in shaping my career path and giving me more of a steer towards the creative side of the industry. Jobs and adulthood are scary and I think its so normal to feel unsure. Don't be afraid to keep looking until you know that you're happy!’

Who is your biggest female inspiration and why?

‘I wouldn't say I have one standout female inspiration in my life. I am inspired daily by all the amazing, brave, intelligent women that I am lucky enough to call colleagues and friends. I'm inspired by all those who strive for equality and create empowering campaigns. I love the director MJ Delaney who creates amazingly powerful work about race and gender equality, my favourite video was her one on Freedom for international day of the girl. It is well worth a watch!’