Reid Campbell saw the intersection of film, business and it’s growing relation to the internet and social media early on. Partnering with others to blend their unique expertise in film and commerce, they have created and grown with this new, unique medium and blooming market in today’s YEDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I’m one of the founding partners at an online marketing agency, VMG Cinematic. We specialize in video production, distribution and marketing. In other words, we produce broadcast quality videos for the web and then ensure that these videos get in front of the right eyes with unique strategies. We work with top brands and agencies. As a partner, I wear many hats around the office varying from working with clients, overseeing post production, and finances. Primarily, I’m responsible for making sure that our clients are satisfied with our work.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
My partners and I started VMG Cinematic binding our experience in filmmaking and business. I’ve been making videos for as long as I can remember and the progression into starting VMG was natural. As brands continue to shift their marketing dollars from traditional to digital mediums, we find ourselves part of a blooming market. I’ve also always been attracted to being an entrepreneur because of the unlimited possibilities that come with it. It can be scary at times but it’s also very exciting and rewarding.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
My favourite part is working with amazingly talented people and enjoying coming in to work to do what I love. We all work hard in creating an enjoyable working environment. I recently overheard two of our staff talking about how much they love our work culture – it was very rewarding to hear that! I also feel fortunate to have met so many incredible people in the industry and I love working with them on a regular basis. Most challenging part is that there’s just not enough hours in the day….but I’m sure everyone can relate to that one.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
My goal is to continue growing VMG while perfecting our service. Ideally in 5 years, we will have a bigger version of what we currently have. Online video marketing is here to stay and it will only continue to get bigger each year.
What does success look like to you?
To me success means creating jobs. The more people we have working in our office, the more successful I feel. My business partners and I always laugh at the fact that we know we’re succeeding when we have to increase the weekly water cooler order to support additional staff.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
It’s hard to pick just one but if I had to – being recognized in Profit HOT 50 as one of Canada’s Emerging Growth Companies. It was definitely a great milestone when VMG was named one of the 50 fastest growing companies in Canada.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Knock on every door there is and network within your field. Also, be friendly and professional as burning bridges will get you nowhere fast.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
VMG donates to the Remix Project. The Remix Project is a program where select teenagers from priority neighborhoods are given the chance to learn audio and film production. Filmmaking is very expensive and it’s wonderful that there is a program that gives teens a chance in trying something they would likely never be able to do on their own.
On my own time, I play in a band and like to give back to the community through music. We’ve done charity shows raising money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Lighthouse for Grieving Children Charity and Habitat for Humanity. It’s important to be aware and find the time to give to those who need it.
What to you is notable?
Being a driven young professional and giving back to community.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
BlackBerry for work and iPhone for personal.