Get to Know Jordan Doucette, Chief Creative Officer at TAXI Toronto

Jordan Doucette is the Chief Creative Officer of TAXI Advertising & Design in Toronto. We wanted to know what qualities Jordan looks for in a designer, a copywriter and in a (dream) client. Also, what it’s actually like at Cannes Lions, the ultimate celebration of creativity in advertising.

Where did you go to school and what did you graduate with?
I went to Queen’s University and then to Humber College to take their post-graduate Media Copywriting Program. It was a full-year with a focus on building your first portfolio and landing an internship.

How/where do you maintain a personal portfolio of work?
I use Carbonmade. It’s an easy-to-use site for us writers who wish we were art directors, especially when it comes time to creating and updating the site. I try to update it on a regular basis. It’s a good moment in time to reflect on your career and what else you wish was on that site.

What qualities do you look for in a designer, and in a copywriter?
The work is super important. That goes without saying. But cultural fit and attitude are incredibly important. When people get along, love to collaborate, and want to hang out and have a beer together, it’s a pretty great sign they’re going to do amazing work. The culture of an agency can either bring out the best in you, or the worst. So, I would encourage anyone interviewing at agencies to ask a lot of questions about the culture of the place to make sure it’s a place that brings out the best in them.

What qualities does a dream client possess?
Dream clients are ambitious, collaborative, nimble, and honest. I feel lucky to say that the clients TAXI has and continues to attract also value these characteristics in their agency partners.

What are you most looking forward to in Cannes?
I’m most looking forward to 10 plus days of ‘fuck, I wish I did that.’ I know I’ll come home feeling equal parts depressed and inspired to do bigger and better work.

Can you describe what Cannes is like?
Cannes is like drinking from the fire house of inspiration. Both in the work you see and the people you meet. If you’re a student/junior, I’d highly recommend entering any and every competition that can get you there. It’s a pretty amazing way to start your advertising adventure.

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How do you stay self-motivated?
I surround myself with people who inspire me. Who are smarter than me. Who push me to go above and beyond.

What would you say is your preferred way to network?
Anything but a phone call. It’s just weird to call people these days.

What are your preferred tools for keeping organized?
I’m German. Organized is just kind of in my blood.

Who has been your mentor in helping you find success?
Nancy Vonk. I owe her so much.

How and where do you continue to learn?
I’m on a ‘year of yes’ journey where I’m participating in as many events as possible. They always teach me something amazing.

Do you have a fitness ritual that you live by?
I see a personal trainer three times a week and when I’m not with her (Jordan Comerford, she’s amazing, check her out at fearlessfitness.ca) I run. I ran my first half marathon at 40.

How do you feed your soul?
Time with my daughter. She might be the greatest human being on the planet.

How would you describe the eating ritual that makes you feel most powerful?
Clean eating with a side of wine.

Who is your favourite personality to follow on YouTube?
I don’t.

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What type of content do you find most compelling on Instagram?
I’m struggling right now with the curated my-life-is-perfect pics that seem to dominate social channels right now. So, anything but that.

What lifestyle brand would you say shares your values most?
I’m a Nike meets Vega meets Aritzia kind of girl.

Who is your favourite artist?
Oliver Jeffers

What is your favourite meal?
Oh my god, we just got one of these (“the world’s best portable wood-fired oven”) and it’s pizza for breakfast, lunch and dinner around here.

What is your favourite sport to watch?
I don’t.

Where is your favourite place to unwind?
Out on a run.

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