What's your job about?
Direct 2 Consumer (D2C) is an award-winning BTL shopper marketing agency specialising in managing field teams, demonstrations, merchandising and experiential events and as an account executive, I assist the account director in campaign management for the grocery side of the D2C business. This involves, but is not limited to, liaison with the retailers and venues, management of logistics, working closely with the operations team, receiving briefs and assisting in costing up campaigns and post-campaign reporting for some of the world’s biggest FMCG companies like Ferrero, JDE & Zespri etc. I think a lot of people assume direct marketing strategies are all in the digital space currently. However, there is still a huge space and opportunity for businesses to adopt direct marketing strategies/campaigns that aren’t necessarily digital or online. Here at D2C we deliver award-winning creative strategic solutions which also targets specific groups of people with a focus, delivering immersive brand and product experiences to customers which are in-person (either in-mall, in-store, at events etc.) engaging customers better, longer and in a more meaningful way than traditional advertisements (print, digital, ads etc.) or even which direct digital marketing strategies can.
What's your background?
I grew up in Cronulla, finishing my HSE in 2016. During High School, I learnt that what I was interested in, seemed to be what my strengths were, and these were photography, video-editing, communicating and writing. From studying business, I also discovered a deep passion for marketing and advertising and was extremely eager to gain a better understanding of the concept. Therefore, I picked a degree in this area, hoping it will land me a proper job in the field of marketing. Whilst studying, I also worked part-time in jobs for companies whose culture was all about the customer and the customer experience. My degree shaped me into the customer-orientated employee that I am, and I became fixated on delivering customer service that doesn’t just meet expectations but exceeds them. I also thoroughly enjoyed getting to know customers on a deeper level and building long-term relationships with them which closely aligns with marketing. A highlight during my degree was in my final semester when I secured a remote internship opportunity in marketing. This was very rewarding, giving me insight into what a market research role entailed and that I want a role with more creativity and innovation. I ended up graduating with a distinction average however, it was a very anticlimactic and tough experience due to the timing of COVID-19 being at its peak in 2020. This also made it very difficult to apply for work, but I just kept trying and trying for roles, even for ones that I was too inexperienced for. Five months ago, I happened to be unsuccessful in a role that was out of my league, however, I, fortunately, made a good impression on the employer who referred me to my boss and the creative & innovative marketing position that I am in today.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
The ideal candidate is ideal for high-energy individuals who enjoy working with others and solving problems. They need to have exceptional communication (verbal and written) & presentation skills, be highly organised, able to multi-task and adhere to short deadlines. Also, having the skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office products (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Most importantly, a marketing or communications graduate would be a perfect candidate as an understanding of marketing and BTL activations is highly required of the role.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
Definitely getting to meet so many people every day from some of the world’s biggest FMCG companies and Retailers who fortunately then get to become our clients or who we work closely with. Each person comes from a different role, background or product category so it gives me a lot of insight into how businesses are run, their objectives, what they have to offer, and a bit about the responsibilities of roles which is really rewarding to me.
What are the limitations of your job?
Yes, the role is very demanding, and you do have a lot of responsibility as the outcome of the campaign/event is dependent on you. Some days you could have 3+ campaigns happening at a time, and it can get overwhelming having to monitor, organise, correct and update each client, as you are the main point of contact for them. However, this is also what makes it very exciting and different each day. The only slight limitation is that at the end of the day, it is the client that makes the final decision despite how much advice and expertise you offer them.
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...
Good things don’t come easy. If you want to become successful and live a good life then you need to work hard for it and be devoted. The more aligned you are with yourself; will help carry you through this journey you are on and every journey forward. It is also important to not let other people’s aspirations, goals and dreams influence your vision of life. It’s your path and you decide where it takes you and how long it takes for you to see it through. Lastly, I think a lot of people say life is too short, however, I think it’s important to alter our mindsets to the mentality that life is long. We don’t need to rush as we have time. It is also never too late to attempt something new.