Recently receiving substantial coverage in the Globe and Mail’s Report on Business for one of his most recent advertising campaigns, Anthony Hello combines the best of the ‘creative’ and ‘client services’ roles, allowing him to contribute creatively while interacting with clients in his role at MediaCom in today’s YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I lead the branded content division at MediaCom – Canada’s biggest media planning & buying agency. In a nutshell, I infuse brands into the content ecosystem by building marketing communications into content people want to engage with. It’s a hybrid role advertiser/producer role.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
A recruiter approached me in ’07 when I was happily positioned as an Account Supervisor at The Hive; I said ‘thanks, but no thanks’ a few times before finally agreeing to take the meeting because I was bored at home on a staycation. The moment I met Misa Kim, VP at MediaCom and my future boss, I knew I’d take the job – I’ve never clicked with anyone so intensely, so instantly. I was mesmerized by her vision, energy, and business mindedness – she was a real-life Amanda Woodward from “Melrose Place”! I gave my notice immediately without really grasping exactly what I’d be doing but knowing it was the right move.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Traditional account management positions in marketing agencies can be stifling because of the archaic delineation between “creative” and “client service” roles. As a content director, I live the best of both worlds every day – building strategy, activations, and client relationships simultaneously. The most challenging part is accounting! I defy anyone to make sense of media paperwork.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In a senior leadership role at a marketing agency and a proper house!
What does success look like to you?
Achieving goals, whatever they may be. So, you have to set them, otherwise you’ll never know if you’re on track.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The early ones stand out – landing my first ad agency gig at ECHO Advertising, placing my first ad, seeing my first projects launch. Recently, one of my campaigns got substantial coverage in the Globe & Mail’s Report on Business; that was a good moment.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Be yourself! No matter what role you’re in, bring your unique personality and talents to the table. If you’re in the right realm, people will respond; if they don’t, you’re not! And remember that your job is always to make your boss’ job easier and your clients famous.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I’m a strong believer in charity starting at home and looking after the next generation, so I support Sick Kids Hospital.
What to you is notable?
Respect, smart decision making, and putting a stake in the ground – whether as an advertiser or in your everyday life.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Reluctantly, BlackBerry – a Curve. I say that with deference, because they’ve served me well for years, but it’s an Apple world and we’re just living in it.