In this series, AdNews spotlights young talent in the Australian media, marketing and advertising sector. This time it's Spark Foundry digital activation coordinator Shiv Bhardwaj.
Time in current role/time at the company:
One year, this April.
How long have you been in the industry?
16 months.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
My first job in Australia, right after my post-grad graduation, was in door-to-door sales, which I did for about two years. I didn’t plan to get into media, however a few of my friends who were already in the industry nudged me to interview for a couple of media roles. That is when my love for paid performance marketing emerged, which lead me to my current role at Spark Foundry in the digital activation team.
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
There are honestly so many incredible people around me who I turn to for guidance. My utmost gratitude goes towards my immediate supervisors, Michael Zhang and Maya Collaery, who have showed me the ropes of the performance marketing world and lead by example by generating exceptional client results. They are both genuinely amazing human beings and have made my work life so fun and fulfilling. I couldn’t have asked for a better team.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
I love that the media industry holds power to create endless touchpoints that have the potential to drive positive business, cultural and social change in the world. I am also extremely thankful for how open and welcoming the industry is. Being a migrant from India, I personally have never felt isolated or at any disadvantage in the companies I have worked in or at the media upskilling and networking events I have attended over the last 16 months. I was recently awarded the MFA’s NGEN Changer of the Week which vouches for inclusivity in adland.
And the biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge is keeping up with the sonic speed with which the industry evolves.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I am currently working towards a senior position in the digital activation team at Spark Foundry. I also see myself eventually impacting the business through L&D initiatives, as I am very passionate about coaching and training.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
In moments of self-doubt and tough times, it is my family who brings the best out of me. Especially my partner, who is always challenging and supporting my ideas at the same time. She keeps me on my toes to constantly do bigger projects, while supporting me in the face of setbacks and failures.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
That I facilitate communication and presentation skills workshops. It is my passion project, as I had big stage fright growing up and it took a long time to get over it. So, now, I share my lessons with the world! If anyone reading this wants to join one of the free workshops, check out www.speakwithshiv.com.
In five years' time, I'll be:
Professionally, I would like to be leading a team of amazing performance media talent and, with them, breaking records for client results.
Personally, I will be filming a vlog tour of the house I have bought and helping more than 10,000 people overcome their stage fright through my communication skills workshops.
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